The Institute of Medicine (IOM) just released a report concluding that too many Americans lack access to oral health care, which can have serious consequences for overall health. To address the problem, the IOM recommends that oral health be integrated into overall health care and that advocacy be used to help shape policies that will improve access, especially for young children.
Washington has been ahead of the curve in expanding access to early care for very young children. The Access to Baby and Children Dentistry (ABCD) program connects Medicaid-enrolled children up to age 6 to dental care in 34 of 39 Washington counties. More than twice as many Medicaid-enrolled children received dental care in 2009 as compared to 1997 when ABCD started. In addition, since 2002, nearly one in three primary care providers have been trained by Arcora Foundation to address children’s oral health by incorporate oral health into well-child checkups.
The IOM report emphasizes that oral health is a vital part of overall health. Washington is making progress, yet too many low-income children and adults in our state still suffer from preventable dental disease. Dental disease prevention improves overall health and saves money. That’s why prevention needs to be a priority even when budgets are tight.
Click here to see a news release about the IOM study. Click here to a radio interview regarding the report.
Oral Health Watch
11 hours ago
#SaveMedicaid #MedicaidMatters #HandsOffMedicaid #MedicaidExpansion
Oral Health Watch
14 hours ago
#SaveMedicaid #MedicaidMatters #HandsOffMedicaid #MedicaidExpansion
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
It's not always easy getting kids and adults to choose water over sugar-sweetened sodas and punches. But adding ice, fresh fruit, and herbs to water can make drinking water more enjoyable. And if your water is fluoridated? Bonus! #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
It's not always easy getting kids and adults to choose water over sugar-sweetened sodas and punches. But adding ice, fresh fruit, and herbs to water can make drinking water more enjoyable. And if your water is fluoridated? Bonus! #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
5 days ago
Summer break may mean a less structured schedule, but it's still important for kids to maintain good oral health care habits. Check out these tips below to ensure children (and adults) protect their teeth throughout the summer break. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
5 days ago
Summer break may mean a less structured schedule, but it's still important for kids to maintain good oral health care habits. Check out these tips below to ensure children (and adults) protect their teeth throughout the summer break. #teethmatter