The Seattle Times recently published an op-ed, “State should provide basic dental care for low-income adults”, authored by Fred Kiga and Mark Secord. We are thrilled that the largest newspaper in the state featured the piece, joining newspapers across the state in publishing editorials and op-eds advocating for full restoration of the Medicaid adult dental program, including funding to fix cavities.
Some key points in the op-ed are:
- Dental problems that remain untreated can progress from minor problems to major, expensive issues.
- Dental disease is linked to many serious and costly health issues, including diabetes and heart disease.
- If dental coverage is limited, people will have few options other than getting their teeth pulled. Some will be driven to the ER because of infections and pain – an expense that does nothing to address the underlying dental problem.
- Today, dental problems are one of the top reasons that Medicaid patients and the uninsured go to the ER.
The op-ed generated considerable interest and the Times published three letters to the editor in response. Add your voice to chorus by contacting your legislators today to advocate for full restoration of the Medicaid adult dental program. Help our state save money and improve health!
Dental care can save money in the long run
Letter to the editor, Seattle Times, May 9
Lack of dental coverage creates problems for families
Letter to the editor, Seattle Times, May 10
Treat dental problems early by providing basic care
Letter to the editor, Seattle Times, May 11
Oral Health Watch
13 hours 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
16 hours 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
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
An overwhelming majority of public health organizations, including the Cleveland Clinic, support community water fluoridation as a cost-effective, equitable and beneficial way to improve oral health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
An overwhelming majority of public health organizations, including the @clevelandclinic, support community water fluoridation as a cost-effective, equitable and beneficial way to improve oral health. #teethmatter