Children’s Dental Health
..................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Issues/Needs: Service & Information Gaps

• There are too few dentists willing and able to sedate children
• Not enough providers accept Denti-Cal
• Prevention messages to children and parents are insufficient
• Regular oral exams and preventive measures need to begin earlier
• Spanish- and Vietnamese-speaking providers are in short supply
• Disabled and special needs children face unmet dental care needs
• Strengthened coordination is needed
• Accessibility to dentists should be improved

Strengthened Coordination Is Needed

Each county has a collaborative that addresses dental health issues. However, there is a great need for improved coordination among county clinics, other public dental programs, and community providers.