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

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.