Pediatric Dentist–Parent Interactions: Converting the Thinking of Practitioners Into Learning Outcomes for Predoctoral Students

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Effective interaction with parents is indispensable for dentists, yet little literature exists on skillsets or application. PURPOSES: (1) Identify core practices of pediatric dentists when interacting with parents; (2) summarize core practices for use in a skillset for students using a Novice to Expert model; (3) convert core practices to learning outcomes for student demonstration with a patient using an Emulation model. METHODS: In 2026 21 practicing pediatric dentists (adjunct faculty) were interviewed asking how and what they said with parents for five scenarios: Minimum disease (healthy and medically compromised), progressing disease (healthy and medically compromised), and recurring disease. Two investigators designated themes, actions, and common words for responses for each of the five scenarios. Subcategories were assigned and counted. RESULTS: The unanimous practice of proactive parent engagement to establish a working relationship; seeking child health more than delivering procedures; reinforcing and seeking positives in dealing with parents; lack of reimbursement discussion as a determinant for actions; explicit emphasis on diet/sweets, brushing with fluoride toothpaste, regular visits. Key findings were the basis for developing a parent-based, student-led demonstration of thinking and judgment. CONCLUSIONS: Overall goal is to maximize child health. Skillset outcomes: Setting where you meet the parent?; Parent expectations?; Child's situation: Healthy/Progressing/Recurring disease? General health?; Home situation?; Parent capacity to comply?; Opportunities for: Positive reinforcement? Empathy?; Priorities for what is possible?; Assessment for: Diet/Sweets, Oral Hygiene/Fluoride toothpaste, Regular visits; Parent's reaction to the interaction?; Likely compliance with recommendations?; Projection of future health for the child?

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Journal of Dental Education, 2026 · DOI ↗