Oral Health IS Health

We believe that oral health is health and dental coverage is health coverage at Oral Health Watch. What happens in the mouth affects a person’s overall health and general wellbeing. Bacterial infections that cause cavities and gum disease can lead to serious medical complications, pain and needless suffering. Throbbing toothaches, visible decay and tooth loss also can impact employment opportunities, school attendance, nutrition, self-esteem and how people relate to you.

Unfortunately, the impacts of dental disease and poor oral health disproportionately affect our lower-income, BIPOC, and underserved and rural neighbors. Programs like Apple Health Adult Dental, Access to Baby and Child Dentistry and DentistLink are wise investments that connect Washington residents to dental care. The global COVID-19 pandemic has made clear that health care is a necessity – and that includes comprehensive dental care coverage.

Oral Health Watch advocates for programs and policies that promote good oral health because oral health is essential to overall health and prevention is preferable to treating disease. No one should be burdened with avoidable dental pain, and everyone deserves to enjoy the benefits of good oral health.