Preventing and managing childhood obesity in dental settings : a qualitative study

INTRODUCTION: Overweight or obesity and dental caries continue to present an important public health challenge for children. Global evidence supports the integration of childhood overweight and obesity management in dental care settings. However, relevant information on the acceptance, feasibility, enablers, and barriers to such practices among Australian oral health care professionals (OHCPs) is scarce. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of OHCPs on childhood overweight and obesity screening and management in oral health settings in the Greater Sydney region in New South Wales, Australia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The OHCPs involved in the Healthy Smiles Healthy Kids (HSHK) birth cohort study were purposively selected for this nested qualitative study. A sample of 15 OHCPs completed the face-to-face interviews, and thematic analysis was undertaken to identify and analyze the contextual patterns and themes. RESULTS: Three major themes emerged: (1) obesity prevention and management in dental practice; (2) barriers and enablers to obesity prevention and management in dental settings; (3) role of oral health professionals in promoting healthy weight status. The OHCPs acknowledged the link between oral health and systemic health. The OHCPs were undertaking height and weight measurements, diet assessment, patient education, and referrals in their routine clinical practice. However, their practices were limited due to barriers such as limited knowledge on childhood obesity and dietary guidelines, time constraints, uncertainty toward scope of obesity screening and counseling during a dental appointment, and a gap in the referral pathway process in public and private dental services. A need for an evidence-based model of care was identified, including capacity building of OHCPs, development of resources such as anthropometric assessment methods and lifestyle-related modification counseling, and identification of a clear referral pathway. CONCLUSION: OHCPs are well-positioned and supportive in undertaking obesity screening and management in their routine clinical practice. This study provides an insight into opportunities to re-orient the existing allied or primary health care work force involved in obesity prevention and management.