The HIDEP model--a straightforward dental health care model for prevention-based practice management

With the ambition of continuously improving the effectiveness of oral health care, the concept of minimal invasive dentistry has become an issue within modern dentistry. The ultimate goal of this concept is to preserve dental tissues (teeth and their attachment). To preserve oral tissue, effective methods for management and resource allocation are needed. Involving the patient within the dental team as a member and not as a customer might also increase the effectiveness. To achieve this, a dedicated tool for managing the actions of all parties involved towards the desired goals is needed. This paper describes the development and use of a special management tool, the HIDEP model (Health Improvement in Dental Practice). The model is used to measure, steer and evaluate the actions within a dental clinic involving patients as well as professionals.