Modules

1.3 Potential Barriers to Oral Health Care Delivery and Financing

Audio

Do oral health professionals serving children with special health care needs need any special training?

Response from Larry Salzmann, D.D.S.

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Text Version

Please note: Since this audioclip was recorded, The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has changed the wording in its guideline from "behavior management" to "behavior guidance."

Potential barriers to oral health care delivery and financing include the following issues and concerns:

  • Children with special health care needs are almost twice as likely to have unmet oral health care needs as their peers without special health care needs across all income levels.8
  • Provision of oral health care for some children with special health care needs requires specialized knowledge, increased awareness and attention, and accommodation.7
  • Children with the most serious conditions who previously were served by experienced, institution-based oral health professionals now seek care from dental practices in local communities where oral health professionals may not have the confidence, knowledge, or skills to serve them appropriately.7,9

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