Addressing Oral Health Disparities of a Tribal Population Through a Combined Implementation of Focus Group Discussion, Mobile Technology Networking, and Creating a Supportive Environment: A Prospective Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE  Oral health disparities generally exist among tribal populations, prompting creative solutions to tackle these challenges. By using a combined implementation strategy of including focus group discussion (FGD), mobile technology networking (MTN), and creating a supportive environment, this study aims to assess and bring positive changes in oral health in these populations. METHODS The current study employed a mixed-method approach on a sample of 100 tribal volunteers. Qualitative assessment included FGD conducted regularly for three months based on themes such as oral hygiene habits, access to oral health, technology in oral health, the relationship of oral health to general health, and the role of diet in oral health. Quantitative evaluation included recording of the oral hygiene index-simplified and gingival index to measure gingival status. Messages on oral health were routinely posted to mobile phones to reinforce oral health education. Appropriate use of indigenous oral hygiene aids (neem and datun) was also taught during the discussion session. Clinical examinations were compared before and after FGD. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25 (Released 2017; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). A paired 't' test was used to find significant differences in gingival status at p<0.05. RESULTS The FGD sessions deduced observations such as limited access to dental care, inadequate oral hygiene practices such as usage of neem sticks and twigs, and lack of oral health awareness. The implementation of MTN facilitated the dissemination of oral health information and enhanced communication between community members and healthcare providers. The gingival index score significantly improved from pre-FGD to post-FGD with a mean difference of 0.41700 significant at p=0.000. Oral hygiene of the target population shifted from "Fair" oral hygiene status to "Good" oral hygiene status. CONCLUSION The combined implementation of FGD, MTN, and creation of a supportive environment demonstrated promising results in addressing oral health disparities among the tribal population. The interventions led to improved gingival status and better utilization of oral hygiene practices. These findings highlight the importance of tailored interventions, community engagement, and mobile technology in addressing oral health disparities in tribal populations. Ongoing support, sustainability, and further research are necessary to ensure the long-term impact and effectiveness of these interventions.