Table 2 Framework of themes and factors associated with Dental General Anaesthetics (DGAs) in children in Victoria
Themes | Main associated factors |
|---|---|
1. Criteria for DGAs | • Importance of preventing dental caries • Variation in views about appropriate threshold for paediatric DGAs • Perceived increase in dental caries prevalence and dental care needs • Change in attitude by OHPs to DGAs • Limitation of existing guidelines |
2. Child factors | • Greater emphasis on children’s attitude toward dental treatment • Possible change in behavioural management techniques |
3. Dental provider factors | Â |
 3.1. Paediatric dentist factors | • Quality of care • Case selection for DGAs |
 3.2. General dentist factors | • Reluctance to treat young children • Changes in general dental practice • Limited alternatives to DGAs |
 3.3. Dental therapist factors | • Increased employment in private practice • Role as primary oral health care workers |
4. Parent factors | • Convenience of DGAs • Parenting styles • Oral health literacy • Guilt • Cultural variations |
5. Risk | • Improved safety of DGAs • Mortality • Morbidity |
6. Financial impact | • Private sector DGA cost • Public sector DGA cost |
7. Access to general anaesthetic facilities | • Economic efficiencies • Dental provider issues • Department of Health policy factors • Rural hospital issues. |
8. Treatment provided and follow-up after a DGA | • Emergency and elective DGAs • Appropriate dental treatment under DGAs • Follow up prevention appointments |