An estimated 80 million Americans currently lack access to dental care. As oral health is essential to the overall health and well-being of an individual, the high volume of those without access can have potentially devastating health consequences such as an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, chronic diseases, diabetes, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Three main barriers to accessing dental care include coverage, provider shortages, and cultural barriers to oral health. In this webinar, we will hear from leaders in the field of oral health who are working to reduce disparities in access to and quality of care. 

Speakers will discuss:

• Federal initiatives to reduce health disparities and advance oral health equity, while furthering oral health in pediatric populations
• A health plan foundation’s investment, in collaboration with the Duke Endowment, to improve oral health in the Carolinas, including in rural communities and school-based programs
• Interprofessional approaches to integrate oral health into education and care delivery models