This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing theresources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject andinvestigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source,and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed isfor the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator.People with systemic sclerosis (SSc) frequently exhibit unique oral and craniofacial manifestations, such as microstomia and xerostomia, in addition to manual dexterity impairments. These manifestations of SSc contribute both directly and indirectly to oral health problems such as periodontal disease and dental caries. Despite a high risk of dental disease for those diagnosed with SSc, few research programs to date have focused on improving their oral health. The proposed application involves implementation of a single-blinded, randomized clinical trial with two arms. One consists of a multi-faceted oral health intervention while the other is a usual dental care control to improve oral health among people with SSc. The multi-faceted oral health intervention will utilize a powered toothbrush and a powered flosser with an enlarged handle to compensate for manual dexterity impairments. In addition, this treatment group will receive instruction for graded mouth-stretching exercises to increase the size of oral aperture. The research goal is to examine both short-term and long-term effects of such a multi-faceted intervention among people with SSc.
The specific aim i s:To evaluate the effect of a multi-faceted intervention for improving oral health status among people with systemic sclerosis (SSc).
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