Oral health equity
Oral Health Watch advocates for the continued support of the state’s Apple Health (Medicaid) Adult Dental Program, which provides comprehensive oral health care coverage for lower-income adults. It is an investment in that can make a profound difference in a person’s life, advance the overall health of Washington residents enrolled in Apple Health – many of whom are at increased risk of COVID-19 – and save the state money in the long term.
Oral health care needs don’t go away when coverage is eliminated. In fact, dental problems worsen as cavities, cracked teeth and gum disease go untreated. People who are unable to access routine and preventive dental care often end up in hospital emergency departments, which are costly and are ill-equipped to address underlying causes of dental pain and oral disease, leading to repeat hospital visits and people self-medicating with over-the-counter pain drugs or opioids.
Untreated oral disease can bring about senseless pain and misery, declining health, and economic hardship caused by dental problems worsening to more expensive, emergency care. Aching cavities and visibly missing teeth can affect a person’s general health, employment opportunities, nutrition, self-esteem, military readiness and how others relate to you.
Dental care coverage is essential to maintaining overall health, but it is especially important now – as we face a global health crisis and Washington state moves toward economic recovery. The Apple Health Adult Dental program is a vital part of health coverage and helps to reduce health disparities and promote health equity. Please urge legislators to continue to support the Apple Health adult dental program and tell them that you support wise investments in dental care because dental care coverage is health care coverage by clicking here.
If you or a family member is in need of dental care, click here.
Oral Health Watch
1d
It may come as a shock to many older adults with work-based dental insurance nearing retirement to learn that comprehensive dental care is not included in #Medicare. Please tell #Congress that dental coverage is health coverage and oral health is health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1d
Tooth decay remains the most common chronic disease among kids. But it doesn't have to be that way. Working in tangent with regular brushing and flossing, routine dental check ups and good oral health habits, water fluoridation can help prevent cavities. #teethmatter
Community water fluoridation is key to good oral and overall health. Learn why pediatricians and parents agree: water fluoridation improves our kids’ health 💧➡️ https://youtu.be/6GXkltMu9b8.
Oral Health Watch
1d
It may come as a shock to many w/ work-based dental insurance nearing retirement to learn that comprehensive dental care is not included in #Medicare. Please tell #Congress that dental coverage is health coverage and oral health is health. #teethmatter
Our health shouldn’t depend on our wealth, but that will only be possible when #OralHealth care is covered too. It’s time to add #DentalCoverage to #Medicare.
Oral Health Watch
2d
Oral Health Watch
2d
Wonder whether carbonated water beverages like seltzer and mineral water is just as healthy tap water. This The New York Times article does a great job of explaining. #teethmatter
Unsweetened carbonated water is a better choice than soda or fruit juice. But don’t overdo it, experts say.
www.nytimes.comOral Health Watch
3d
Oral health care is integral to overall health for people of all ages. That includes older adults. And that is why dental coverage should be included in #Medicare. #teethmatter
A recent poll from YouGov shows that 9/10 voters believe #dentalcare is a necessary part of overall #healthcare and 55% hold their members of Congress responsible for the current lack of coverage. https://bit.ly/3iS7UKq