School‐Based Access to and Delivery of Oral Health Care
Mary E. Northridge, Lynn Gargano, Margaret K. MasonABSTRACT
Background
Given the importance of oral health to overall health, inclusive evidence‐based interventions to improve health care access, quality of life, and learning and development through school‐based delivery of oral health care are needed for all children, including those with special needs.
Contributions to Practice
Integrated delivery of school‐ and community‐based health care holds the potential to improve the health and lives of children and adolescents. Team‐based approaches are effective in ensuring continuity of care on‐site in schools.
Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity
Greater attention to ensuring socioeconomically disadvantaged students gain access to school‐based delivery of dental services and adolescent priorities (periodontal disease, dental erosion, and misalignment of the upper and lower teeth) may enhance oral health care for these underserved groups. Long‐term tracking of oral health outcomes (caries‐free rate, oral health‐related quality of life) and educational success (attendance/graduation rates, grade point averages) would bolster the case for school‐based delivery of integrated health care.
Conclusions
School‐based oral health programs provide comprehensive on‐site care, including topical fluoride application and sealant placement to prevent dental caries. Involving parents and teachers in program activities emphasizes the importance of oral health to overall health both at home and in school.