Pediatric Dental Health
Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization (FDRHPO) is working to improve pediatric oral health in the region. ​An educational and awareness campaign to educate the general public about the importance of preventive measures (such as twice daily brushing and flossing, fluoride varnish treatments, and dental appointments at least annually) in children’s oral and dental health was developed and implemented in the North Country.
Mission
Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization (FDRHPO) was recently awarded a 1-year grant through Fidelis Care’s “Rural Health Grant Awards” to improve pediatric oral health in the region.
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FDRHPO collaborated with Pediatric Wellness of Northern New York, a primary care practice serving patients in and around Jefferson County, to provide their patients with fluoride varnish treatments, dental care supplies (e.g., toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss), and information about dental practices in the region.
The Problem: Pediatric Oral Health Challenges in Northern New York
• Our region has fewer dental providers per capita compared to urban areas of the state – and precious few who accept Medicaid (with difficulties for other forms of insurance as well)
• 25% of adult tri-county residents report having difficulty accessing dental care, with “long wait time” cited as the biggest obstacle – 38% of those with children in their home reported difficulty accessing dental care
• The rate of outpatient visits for dental caries (a.k.a. cavities) in the region is 357.5 per 10,000, which is 286% higher than the state average of 125
• Oral health and overall health are linked
• PWNNY sees an average of 248 children each year for dental preoperative exams, some of which could have been prevented, and which incur significant cost
Available Resources
Each of the following resources are available to be customized to your business or organization to support the continued education and commitment to increasing the dental health of pediatric patients in the North County. Please contact Holly Boname to request a custom resource or click each link to download.