The Impact of Family-Centered Care on Oral Health for Children With Special Health Care Needs

Abstract

Aim: To examine the association of family-centered care (FCC) with oral health indicators among children with special health care needs (CSHCN).

Methods: Data includes the CSHCN population from the 2017 to 2019 National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH). Four parent- and caregiver-reported binary oral health outcomes were assessed: preventive dental visits (PDVs), cavities, condition of teeth, and oral health problems. The primary independent variable was parent- and caregiver-perceived FCC. Multivariable logistic models were used to investigate the association of FCC with oral health indicators.

Results: Of 16 338 CSHCNs, a high proportion (83.29%) received FCC. Receipt of FCC was positively associated with better oral health outcomes among CSHCN. Compared to those who did not receive FCC, CSHCN who received FCC had 56% higher odds of having one or more PDV (adjusted odds ratio: 1.56, 95% Confidence Interval: 1.15-2.10), were 1.90 times more likely to have teeth rated as excellent or very good, had 82% greater odds of having no cavities, and 1.91 times higher odds of having no reported oral health problems.

Conclusions: FCC plays a critical role in maintaining oral health among CSHCNs. Its broader implementation is a potential solution to reduce disparities in oral health among CSHCN and across the pediatric population.

Keywords: children with disabilities; dental care for children; dental caries; oral health; pediatric dentistry; preventive dentistry.