Dr. Peter Day
University of Leeds - Professor and Consultant in Paediatric Dentistry
In England, a quarter of 5 year olds have tooth decay. Twice daily toothbrushing with fluoride toothpaste and limiting sugary foods and drinks helps prevent tooth decay. For autistic children, establishing good oral health habits can be complex, owing to extra challenges, such as communication, altered sensitivity and rigid behaviour patterns.
toothPASTE will work with autistic children, families with young autistic children and the professionals who care for them. toothPASTE will identify what support families need, which early-years professionals could provide it and the best times to provide this support.
Findings will inform the design of local services and national guidance around how best to support the oral health of young autistic children.
Fundamental Research
Core ScienceCollect data and evidence
Fundamental Research
Discovery and DesignImplement in schools
Translate
Trials and AssessmentCo-design and test in ~ 10 schools
Implement
Large Randomised Controlled TrialRefine and test across ~ 100 schools
Scale-up
Regional RolloutTest in contexts and delivery conditions ~ 500 schools
National
Evidence-based PolicyDevelop national policy with Whitehall partners
Our team members
Amrit Bhatti
University of Leeds - Qualitative Researcher
Dr. Kara Gray-Burrows
University of Leeds - Lecturer in Psychological Approaches to Health
