This section discusses facilitators of access to oral health care and indicators of quality of oral health care for children from the family’s perspective.

Download the Family Satisfaction Questionnaire that is based on these indicators, and share it with parents to assess their satisfaction with oral health services and to provide feedback for improving services.

Facilitators of Access to Oral Health Care

• Child is seen for an oral health examination 6 months after the eruption of the first tooth or by age 1, whichever comes first.
• Dental benefits and any coverage limitations are explained in the family’s primary language and using terms the family can understand.
• The family is not denied care because of the child’s special health care needs.
• The family is able to schedule an appointment for initial or routine care within 1 month of calling the dental office.
• The child is seen for oral emergencies by an oral health professional within 24 hours of calling the dental office.
• Specialty services are available and facilitated by a direct referral.
• Potential obstacles to care (e.g., lack of transportation) are assessed, and resources are identified to help overcome obstacles.

Indicators of Quality Oral Health Care

• The family is informed about the child’s oral development, oral health status, and oral health needs.
• An assessment is made of what the family is already doing to promote oral health and what frustrations or barriers exist that interfere with success.
• The family receives anticipatory guidance to prevent or reduce oral diseases or injuries.
• The family is actively involved in oral health care decisions.
• Informed consent for oral health care is provided in the family’s primary language and using terms the family can understand.
• Oral health care is provided in the least restrictive and safest possible environment for the child.
• The family is treated with dignity and respect by oral health professionals and dental office staff.
• The child receives individualized oral health care according to identified needs.
• Treatment needs and preventive care are completed in a timely manner, and a recall cycle is established based on the child’s needs and risk factors.
• Care among multiple health professionals is coordinated, and interprofessional communication occurs.
• The child’s oral health status improves as a result of care.