Effect of Motivational Interviewing and Game Based Education on Oral Hygiene Behavior of Preschool Children

In each of the four MI counseling sessions that were delivered, the researcher approached mothers in small groups of 5 via three phases, in 15-30 minutes, to establish rapport/ alliance in the first phase, to identify health needs in the second phase and finally to reinforce dental needs in the third phase.

In each of the four MI counseling sessions, the researcher approached mothers via three phases, in 15-30 minutes, to establish rapport/ alliance, to identify and finally reinforce dental needs in the same pattern as MI group. In addition, the children were engaged in 'Happy Teeth, Healthy Kids' which is an android tablet game that was included in the MI session scheduled for the mothers. Children were told to follow correct steps of brushing in order to obtain happy bright teeth. This helped the children realize that brushing teeth will give them a bright smile.

It was delivered through a 15-minutes oral health session given to mothers of preschoolers. Mothers were given brief information about causes of dental caries and role of plaque, toothbrush size, diet / frequency of sweet snacks, brushing technique, toothpaste and fluoride use as well as regular dental visits. Participants were then shown a short educational video about prevention of dental caries among children coupled with oral hygiene instructions. At the end of the session, participants were given a leaflet reinforcing the information to take home.