Incentives for Daily Tooth Brushing to Reduce Gingivitis

In this randomized controlled study, the investigators compare two classes of behavioral approaches to change habits and health outcomes with an application to dental health: cognitive vs. behavioral financial incentives. Under cognitive incentives subjects are paid to correctly answer health-related quizzes. Under behavioral incentives subjects earn money for making healthy choices. The investigators apply these incentives to toothbrushing, a daily health-related behavior critical to the prevention of dental caries and periodontal disease, two high-burden conditions among US adults.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male or female older than 18 years, with at least 10 teeth present.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, systemic antibiotics taken within the previous 2 months, need for referral for periodontal treatment.