Community dentistry and oral epidemiology
-
Community Dent Oral Epidemiol · Feb 2013
Life course experiences and lay diagnosis explain low-income parents' child dental decisions: a qualitative study.
This study aimed to better understand low-income parents' child dental care decisions through a life course approach that captured parents' experiences within the social context of poverty. ⋯ This original approach revealed insights that help to understand why low-income parents may underutilize free dental services. Further research should consider how dental programs can nurture parental empowerment and capitalize on parents' perceived ability to diagnose and manage their children's oral health.