Support for lasting solutions that improve oral health – and overall health – for people in Washington state remains strong.
The Oral Health Watch Coalition gathered on January 14th for a legislative kick-off lunch. More than 40 attendees representing business, child advocacy, education, government, faith-based, medical, and seniors-focused organizations shared their upcoming legislative goals and heard from keynote speaker Dr. Bob Crittenden.
Crittenden is Senior Health Policy Advisor to Gov. Inslee and a family physician who treated underserved communities in Seattle’s central and southeast neighborhoods for nearly three decades. He recalled that affordable access to oral health care was a widespread need among his patients.
Crittenden stated that oral health and behavioral health must be further integrated into health policies to ensure overall health. The benefits of access to oral health care go beyond wellness and a healthy smile, he added, affecting a person’s employment opportunities and ability to provide for their family. According to Crittenden, dental problems are among the biggest differentiators in income and class today.
Check out photos from the event on our Facebook page.
Oral Health Watch
15 hours ago
Oral health profoundly impacts our lives. From sustaining basic health to achieving self-esteem and social belonging, the condition of your mouth influences overall physical, psychological, and socioeconomic well-being. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Water fluoridation is one of the simplest, most effective ways to prevent cavities. It helps protect teeth every day, benefits people of all ages and income levels, and supports healthier communities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Dental care access matters for the entire family! Studies show when caregivers and parents receive regular dental care, their kids are more likely to have good oral health, practice preventive habits, and avoid missed school due to dental problems. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
4 days ago
With untreated cavities increasing among Washington children across every racial and ethnic group, prevention is more important than ever. Community water fluoridation, sealants, fluoride varnishes, and access to regular checkups helps make it possible for kids to start life with a healthy smile. ...#teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
7 days ago
Access to preventive oral health care, fluoride, sealants and early treatment matters. Prevention protects health—and prevents a small problem from becoming a lifelong burden. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 weeks ago
One cavity can begin a lifetime cycle of fillings, repairs, pain and costly dental treatment. That’s why ensuring access to preventive dental care—and proven measures such as fluoride, dental sealants and regular checkups—is both sound health policy and a wise investment. Preventing disease ...before it starts improves health, reduces long-term costs and helps people keep their natural teeth throughout their lives. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 weeks ago
Healthy communities begin with access to preventive care - including oral health care. Regular checkups, screenings, and preventive measures like community water fluoridation help prevent disease and keep people healthy at every stage of life. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 weeks ago
Access to preventive oral health care is fiscally responsible public policy. Regular care helps prevent small problems from becoming painful, complex, and costly. Investing in prevention lowers long-term costs while supporting healthier people, stronger communities and a more productive workforce. ...#teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
Summer is busy and getting kids to brush and floss regularly isn’t always easy.
Thankfully, fluoridated water provides added protection against cavities, helping keep those busy smiles healthy and happy all summer long. ☀️🪥🚰😁 #teethmatter