After a marathon of negotiations a supplemental budget was approved by the state legislature on Wednesday. The good news is that the budget protects dental coverage for low-income pregnant women, seniors in nursing homes and people with developmental disabilities. This decision by the legislature to support funding for dental coverage reflects in part an increased…
With the release of the Senate budget Tuesday, both Houses of the state Legislature are proposing to continue funding dental coverage for low-income pregnant women, seniors in nursing homes and people with developmental disabilities. This coverage was eliminated in Gov. Gregoire’s proposed supplemental budget. Decisions by legislators to preserve dental coverage reflect increased recognition that…
The Wall Street Journal sheds new light on the connection between oral health and overall health in a new story about how signs in your mouth can indicate broader health problems. “Some of the earliest signs of diabetes, cancer, pregnancy, immune disorders, hormone imbalances and drug issues show up in the gums, teeth and tongue…
Policymakers may eliminate one of the key supports that allow dentists and physicians to volunteer their time to treat Washington State’s uninsured and underinsured. This legislative session policymakers are considering a proposal that would eliminate malpractice insurance for dentists, hygienists, physicians and other health care workers who volunteer to treat some of the state’s most…
The Governor’s proposed supplemental budget eliminates all non-emergency dental care for eligible Medicaid-insured adults ($8.6 million). Pregnant women enrolled in Medicaid would lose dental coverage. Poor oral health can lead to complications with pregnancy. In addition, mothers can pass the bacteria that cause dental disease to their babies. Nearly half of all births in Washington…
Each fall, policymakers and advocates come together for the Washington State Senior Lobby conference, this year held on October 21. As a member of the Senior Lobby, WDS Foundation is a sponsor of the conference and will host a booth providing resources and information to highlight the importance of good oral health for seniors. Seniors…
Oral Health Watch
5 hours ago
#DYK in addition to helping Washington residents connect with dental care in their community, DentistLink can help you access additional resources like transportation, childcare and interpretation services? #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
22 hours ago
Drinking fluoridated tap water instead of bottled water is a more affordable and more environmentally friendly way to stay hydrated and quench thirst. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Drinking fluoridated tap water instead of bottled water is a more affordable and more environmentally friendly way to stay hydrated and quench thirst. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Remain hydrated during those hot, summer days with water instead of sweetened sodas, fruity punches, and sports and energy drinks. Check out these tips to help encourage family and loved ones to opt for sugar free (and ideally fluoridated) water to beat the heat. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Remain hydrated during those hot, summer days with water instead of sweetened sodas, fruity punches, and sports and energy drinks. Check out these tips to help encourage family and loved ones to opt for sugar free (and ideally fluoridated) water to beat the heat. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Cavities don't have to be a part of growing up. With water fluoridation, brushing with fluoride toothpaste, avoiding sweets, and access to oral health care, kids - and adults - can live cavity-free. #teethmatter