The Mouth Matters in Mental Health Trial -2
This research, called 'The Mouth Matters in Mental Health Trial -2', aims to help people with severe mental health problems get to their routine dental appointments. We are testing a special 'link worker' who will help guide and support them. We want to find out if having this support makes people more likely to attend the dentist and if it improves their mouth health and quality of life. We'll also check if this support is a good use of NHS funds. We predict that people who get this extra help will go to the dentist more often and have better oral health compared to those who don't. This study could lead to new ways to make dental care fairer for everyone, especially those facing mental health challenges.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, called 'The Mouth Matters in Mental Health Trial -2', is all about helping people with severe mental health difficulties look after their teeth and gums. We know that sometimes, it can be really hard for people with mental health problems to attend routine appointments, including going to the dentist. This can lead to worse dental health and other problems.
That's where this study comes in. We're testing a new approach where a 'link worker' will provide support. Think of a link worker as someone who helps connect you with the services you need and overcome any difficulties you might have in getting there. In this study, they will specifically help people book and get to their routine dental check-ups.
We want to find out if this link worker support truly makes a difference. Will more people go to the dentist? Will their mouth health improve? And will their quality of life, related to their mouth and teeth, get better? We're also looking at whether this kind of help is good value for money for the NHS. The results of this study could lead to better ways for people with severe mental health conditions to access the dental care they need.
Key takeaways
- Study focuses on helping people with severe mental health issues attend dental appointments.
- Tests a 'link worker' support service.
- Aims to improve dental attendance and mouth health.
- Will assess if the support is good value for money.
- Participants will be randomly assigned to a group with or without link worker support.
- Involves questionnaires at the start and after nine months.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over. You would need to be currently receiving care from a community mental health or early intervention team. A key part of joining is that you haven't had a routine dental appointment (like a check-up, filling, or other planned treatment) in the last three years. This means we're looking for people who haven't regular dental care, but emergency dental visits (like for a sudden toothache) wouldn't stop you from joining.
There are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you are currently staying in a psychiatric hospital ward, or if there's an immediate, serious risk to yourself or others. Also, if you're already taking part in another dental research study, you wouldn't be able to join this one.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you currently supported by a community mental health or early intervention team?
- Have you not had a routine dental check-up or treatment (like a filling) in the past three years?
- Are you currently not staying on a psychiatric hospital ward?
- Are you not at immediate risk of harming yourself or others?
- Are you not already taking part in another dental research study?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will continue with their usual care, and the other group will receive usual care plus support from a 'link worker'. The link worker will help you to attend a routine dental appointment.
You'll be asked to complete some questionnaires at the beginning of the study and again after nine months. These questionnaires will ask about your mouth health and how it affects your quality of life. The researchers will also, with your permission, look at your dental records to see if you have attended a dental appointment. The study will last for about nine months after you complete the first questionnaires.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (5)
- Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodePreston, United Kingdom
- Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeNewcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Pennine Care NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeAshton-under-Lyne, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom
- Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeManchester, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is a 'link worker'?
A link worker is a trained person who helps connect you with services and supports you in overcoming challenges to access them, like getting to a dental appointment.
Will I have to pay for dental treatment?
The study aims to help you access a routine dental appointment. Your eligibility for NHS dental charges will remain the same as outside the study.
What if my mental health gets worse during the study?
Your usual care for your mental health will continue as normal. If you have any concerns, you should speak to your care team.
How long will I be in the study?
The study will involve completing assessments at the start and after nine months.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.
How to find out more
Dr Palmier-Claus, PhD, DClinPsy
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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