This article proposes a model for quality evaluation of oral health care in children. The conceptual framework for the evaluation matrix consisted of evaluation studies on oral health care services in Brazil and other countries and a survey and review of prevailing public policies for children's health in Brazil. Two dimensions, Management and Provision, were evaluated in the quality of municipal management of pediatric oral health care. Management included two component dimensions, articulation and resources, while Provision included two more, "promotion and prevention" and "diagnosis and treatment". The evaluation matrix consisted of nine indicators in the Management dimension and nine in the Provision dimension. The indicators were elaborated in workshops with specialists. The model proved appropriate for application in municipalities with different population sizes and allows identifying the areas where managers should improve their actions.