Using a random numbers table, half of the mothers in the test group (group A) were selected to test the impact of a structured telephone consultation as an additional mode of contact. The structured telephone consultation was conducted
as a scripted interview. At the time of consultation the infants were between 6 and 12 months of age. Up to six attempts, on different days and time slots were made to reach the selected participants by phone. After arrangement of a
suitable time for the consultation, 18 questions acted as prompts to examine the developing pattern of oral hygiene and eating habits of the child. The 18 questions were based on the anticipatory guidance which the mother received earlier
in the study. Further consultation occurred to a varying extent with each mother addressing specific issues that arose. No phone calls were made to mothers in the test group B.