February 29, 2012
On Friday, Feb. 17, approximately 50 dentists assembled at the Colorado State Capitol to talk with state legislators about a bill to promote sustainable oral health practices and efficiency in our state’s Medicaid dental benefit. SB 108, sponsored by Sen. Jeanne Nicholson of Black Hawk, would provide basic dental care to pregnant mothers.
Poor oral health is a significant Medicaid cost driver. SB 108 would provide access to basic oral health services and help establish good oral health habits during pregnancy. Giving a pregnant mom a solid oral health foundation can help eliminate costly and unnecessary emergency room visits and even result in healthier pregnancies. It’s also well known that the oral health of the mother is the best predictor of the child’s oral health. By establishing healthier mouths and habits for mothers, thus delaying the transmission of oral disease to the child, SB 108 could help reduce another huge Medicaid cost driver – the high expense of treating early childhood dental decay.
The CDA thanks all of the member dentists who attended the 2012 Dentists at the Capitol event. Your participation made a great impact. Visit the CDA Facebook page to view pictures from the event.
