A Qualitative Study of Naturally Living Parents and Child Oral Health: Omissions and Commissions

Analysis indicated that although parents navigated both omissions and commissions, omissions were more overtly present. Compared to previous health research using this framework, omissions and commissions were not as clearly demarcated in relation to oral health. The results show that oral health is a complex interplay of omissions and commissions, and parents must navigate not only discrete elements that affect the oral health of their children but also how these are influenced by considerations including social well-being.Knowledge Transfer Statement:The study highlights the need for dentists and early childhood health professionals to consider the complex way some parents perceive, inform, and rationalize decisions regarding their children's oral health. There is a need for nuance when considering children's oral health and naturally living parenting, especially in relation to effectively communicating health information that fosters trust and is considerate of broader lifestyle and health factors.