Scott introduces Bill to increase access to Oral Health Care

Last week, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) helped introduce the Action for Dental Health Act of 2018, a bill that would reauthorize initiatives that increase access to oral health treatment and prevention services, particularly for underserved communities. Additional co-sponsors include Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI). “Dental care is an important part of our overall health and we should work to make sure families have access to basic oral care,” Scott said. “I am confident this legislation will help promote better education of dental services and improve availability of care across the country, even in our most underserved communities. I am proud to support the Action for Dental Health Act alongside Senators Booker, Cassidy, and Hirono and look forward to the Senate considering this important measure in the near future.” Poor oral health is a risk, as it can lead to various conditions, including tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. It can even be linked to other health issues, such as diabetes, heart disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Many of these conditions can be avoided by preventive measures, such as regular cleanings. Specifically, this legislation would: Reauthorize oral health promotion and disease prevention activities at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, such as school-based dental sealant programs and support for community water fluoridation; Establish an Action for Dental Health Program to improve oral health education and reduce barriers to oral health care; and Reauthorize and expand a grant program through the Health Resources and Services Administration that helps states increase their oral health workforce and provide needed dental care, particularly in underserved communities.