2.1 Providing Family-Centered Oral Health Care

Ensuring That Care Is Family-Centered

Recognize parents as the primary managers of their child’s oral health care. Parents bring expertise to their role as care managers, since they are with their child every day and interact with all health professionals who care for their child.

Involve parents in the child’s oral health care by asking for and considering their opinions and responding to their concerns. Letting parents know that their input is important builds mutual respect. Giving parents the form “Getting to Know Me” to fill out before their child’s dental appointment can provide oral health professionals with valuable personal information about each child.

Consider flexibility in scheduling, and facilitate any necessary referrals. Consider the family’s daily life and the challenges of having a child with special health care needs. Ask about transportation and other needs when scheduling visits. A child may have many appointments every week with different health professionals. Coordinated scheduling may help to reduce “no show” appointments, cancellations, or late arrivals.

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