It is desirable from both a learning standpoint and the welfare of the patient that an approach to oral health be utilized that recognizes the patient as the vital member of the health team. This places a significant responsibility on the School and the student to educate the patient as to the value of oral health and to the means by which its improvement can be achieved. The training necessary to implement the patient's role in daily oral disease control procedures must be provided, the patient's performance evaluated, and training reinforced. Prevention and treatment of oral diseases must be the constant concern of the students, faculty and staff. Types of Patient Care .
Comprehensive care is a system of care to meet the total oral health needs of a patient.
All patients are advised of their comprehensive care needs. Patients are not accepted for comprehensive care if their needs are beyond the scope of the school's system of care or if they do not have the time, the financial resources or interest. A comprehensive approach to oral health care is most desirable and all patients accepted in the clinic who demonstrate a willingness and ability to control oral disease processes qualify for the Comprehensive Care Program. All patients accepted for care in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry are offered comprehensive restorative care, with appropriate referral to other specialty clinics as needed. Patients may be accepted for Limited Care.