A recent Huffington Post story draws attention to the effects of a failure to provide dental care for low-income residents. Due to budget challenges many states, including Washington, have cut dental care coverage for Medicaid recipients.
The story highlights Washington as an example of a state that no longer provides dental coverage to those in need. As a result, more than 450,000 adults in our state do not have access to dental care. Many of these low-income residents seek pain relief in emergency rooms, which costs taxpayers more.
Experts stress that proper dental care is a core part of overall good health and warn that not providing dental care will cost more in the long run.
A women with a disability in Seattle observes: “We’re the richest country on earth, but we have people going hungry and without proper medical and dental care.”
Oral Health Watch
6 hours ago
Every child deserves an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. When we provide access to quality oral health care for low-income children, we can significantly improve their overall well-being, quality of life and ability to thrive. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
11 hours ago
Every child deserves an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. When we provide access to quality oral health care for low-income children, we can significantly improve their overall well-being, quality of life and ability to thrive. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Providing oral health care access for lower-income workers can make a profound difference in health and quality of life. Bad breath, tooth loss, and visible decay can significantly impact employment opportunities for working adults with:
✅decreased confidence
✅increased absenteeism
... ✅lower productivity
✅potential negative perceptions by employers, colleagues and customers. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Providing oral health care access for lower-income workers can make a profound difference in health and quality of life. Bad breath, tooth loss, and visible decay can significantly impact employment opportunities for working adults with:
✅decreased confidence
✅increased absenteeism
... ✅lower productivity
✅potential negative perceptions by employers, colleagues and customers. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Access to preventive and restorative oral health care is highly effective and saves money, sparing people from needless pain and expensive hospital emergency department visits that don't have the equipment or trained staff to address the root causes of oral disease. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Access to preventive and restorative oral health care is highly effective and saves money, sparing people from needless pain and expensive hospital emergency department visits that don't have the equipment or trained staff to address the root causes of oral disease. #teethmatter