Early Childhood Caries Intervention Among Maori Children in New Zealand

Māori do not enjoy the same oral health status as non-Māori people in Aotearoa/New Zealand including early childhood caries (ECC). An ECC intervention research project is being conducted that involves  dental care provided to the mother during pregnancy, application of fluoride varnish to the child, motivational interviewing and anticipatory guidance. This presentation outlines the kaupapa Māori research (Māori philosophical approach) which aims to reduce ECC among tamariki Māori (Māori children).

Method:

This project was undertaken within the tribal area of Waikato-Tainui in the central North Island. Māori woman who were hapū (pregnant) were recruited between September 2011 and December 2012. Recruitment was through the extensive community networks of the Māori health provider, Raukura Hauora O Tainui. Self-reported information was collected on sociodemographic characteristics, pregnancy details, self-reported general and oral health and health-related behaviours and oral health beliefs.

Result:

Data from 222 pregnant Māori women was obtained (mean age 26-years); 110 were randomly allocated to the intervention group and 112 to the control group.  Most women reported good health. Almost all were dentate, 57.7% described their oral health as fair or poor, and dental service-use was relatively low and symptom-related.

Conclusion:

Mothers’ important role in nurturing the well-being of the young child includes the protection and maintenance of the growing child’s oral health. The findings provide important insights into Māori mothers’ oral health knowledge, beliefs and practices.