Classroom fillings could save Kids' teeth and money
NCT ID NCT05766696
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study looks at two methods for placing glass ionomer fillings in the back baby teeth of 200 South African children aged 4-8. One method is done in a classroom using hand tools (ART), the other in a mobile clinic with standard equipment. Researchers will track how long the fillings last and which approach is more cost-effective over two years.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- glass ionomer restorative material
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could show that a simpler, classroom-based filling method works just as well as a clinic-based one, making dental care more accessible for children in rural areas.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study in one region, so results may not apply everywhere. The fillings may not last as long as hoped, and the simpler method might prove less durable.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
-
Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
-
About 200 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Started
-
Feb 2025
- Expected to finish
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Feb 2027
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
-
A company
The lead sponsor is a pharmaceutical, biotech, or medical-device company.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
-
4 to 8 years
- Sex
-
Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
-
Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
General Inclusion Criteria: * Children (4-8 years of age) * Guardians have given informed consent * Child is cooperative and assented Inclusion criteria for teeth * Cavity \> 1 mm * Tooth has no pathological mobility * Tooth has no preexisting developmental defects * Tooth has no pulp exposure or is indication for endodontic treatment * No pain, fistula or abscess related to the selected tooth Exclusion criteria for teeth * Cavity \> 1 mm * Tooth has no pathological mobility
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Nyameko and Itsitsa Primary Schools
Mfuleni, Western Cape, 7100, South Africa
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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