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
5 hours ago
Grateful for the public health professionals whose dedication helps build healthier communities through prevention, education, and expanding access to care. Our communities are better because of you. #PublicHealth #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Public health helps communities thrive. It prevents illness, promotes well-being, and creates the conditions for healthier lives. When we invest in public health, we invest in stronger communities. #PublicHealthWeek #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Community water exemplifies public health at its best: effective, equitable and preventive. Public health is essential to fostering healthier communities and advancing health equity. #teethmatter #PublicHealthWeek
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Every child deserves a chance to grow up cavity free. Tooth decay is largely preventable but prevention only works when families have access to tools like water fluoridation, preventive care and oral health support. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
4 days ago
Does oral health care access matter for caregivers and parents? 💯 Kids learn by example, and when they see the adults in their lives make oral health a priority, children are more likely to do the same. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 weeks ago
Oral health care access can shape economic opportunity and stability. When people cannot get the preventive and restorative dental care they need, the consequences can affect confidence, employment, financial security, and how others perceive you. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 weeks ago
Good oral health starts early, and Washington’s Access to Baby & Child Dentistry (ABCD) program connects income-eligible families with providers trained to care for young kids, helping set children on a lifelong path to better oral health.
#teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 weeks ago
The best way to fight cavities is to stop them before they start. Brush. Floss. Drink fluoridated water. Skip sugary drinks. Preventing decay is easier, less painful, and far less costly than treating oral disease later. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 weeks ago
Nearly 45% of parents say they have missed work because of their child’s oral health problems. Good oral health supports healthier kids, stronger families, and greater stability at work and at home. #teethmatter