The National Indian Health Board (NIHB) invites you to attend a discussion on strengthening the accessibility and effectiveness of pediatric oral health programs in Indian Country.
American Indian/Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) suffer from the poorest oral health of any population in the United States, with staggering rates of untreated tooth decay among children and untreated decay and gum disease among adults. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted dental services in Indian Country and worsened oral health outcomes in the short term. Early childhood caries (ECC) rates among AI/AN children are a major child health disparity. Additional resources to prevent and treat ECCs would protect against a common source of morbidity in a young population and support healthy living beyond oral health.
Learning Objectives:
- Pediatric oral health needs earlier and greater prioritization in families, communities, and Tribal health organizations.
- Innovative options exist for communities and organizations to improve accessibility to pediatric oral healthcare.
For more information, contact Brett Weber, Public Health Policy and Programs Manager, at BWeber@nihb.org.
