In Washington, 4 out of 10 kids enter Kindergarten with tooth decay. Children can’t learn if they are in pain from dental disease. It’s the most common chronic childhood disease and can lead to other serious health problems.
The good news is dental disease is preventable. There are programs that help children start on the right track toward good oral health. Washington’s Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD) is a nationally recognized program that helps Medicaid-enrolled kids, up to age six, get connected with dental care—starting as early as their first birthday. Early intervention is important as dental problems often start small but quickly become more difficult and costly to treat. The program’s focus on prevention is cost effective which means savings for the state, families and taxpayers.
Support continued funding for state and local programs, such as ABCD, that help prevent dental disease. We have a responsibility to protect the health of all children so they can play, thrive, and learn.
Oral Health Watch
10 hours ago
Discrimination, the language you speak at home, education, and where people live and work all influence health. A health care system that addresses these social determinants can help remove barriers to care, improve outcomes, and build healthier communities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
DentistLink is a free referral service with friendly and knowledgeable referral specialists connecting people to dental care in their community whether they are uninsured or insured, including Apple Health (Medicaid). #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
4 days ago
Nearly half of working parents report taking time off to address their children's oral health needs. Preventive oral health care access means less pain, fewer missed school and work days, and lower treatment costs. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
5 days ago
Washington’s Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD)Program helps young children with Apple Health coverage get the preventive dental care they need, reducing future dental costs and setting kids on a lifelong path of good oral health. Supporting prevention is good for kids and a smart ...Read moreinvestment. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
6 days ago
Water fluoridation helps protect everyone's teeth against cavities regardless of age or income level. But it is especially beneficial for our neighbors and community members who experience barriers to dental care access, including children, lower-income workers, senior citizens, and people ...Read morewith disabilities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 weeks ago
An estimated 30,000 to 45,000+ Washington residents end up in hospital emergency departments each year for preventable, non-traumatic dental conditions like untreated cavities, deep abscesses, and severe pain. When people lose access to basic, preventive oral health care, untreated cavities and ...Read moretooth decay don't just disappear—they worsen. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
When we invest in dental care access, we invest in people. Supporting preventive and restorative care for lower-income children and adults means stronger communities, a healthier workforce, and more kids ready to thrive. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
Healthy smiles start with everyday prevention. Community water fluoridation, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, and regular dental checkups help keep teeth strong and cavities away. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
Money invested in early, accessible pediatric oral health care can yield massive returns in the workplace. When kids have access to preventive oral health care, it means working parents having to take less time off - especially for hourly wage workers. #teethmatter