Pamela Sagness Executive Director, Behavioral Health | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
Pamela Sagness Executive Director, Behavioral Health | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is actively participating in Children’s Dental Health Month this February. The initiative aims to promote oral health among children, their parents, caregivers, and educators. This effort aligns with national observations of the month dedicated to children's dental health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights that tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic disease among children in the United States. Over half of children aged 6-8 have experienced cavities in at least one baby tooth.
HHS's Oral Health Program addresses children's dental health through prevention, education, and SEAL!ND—a school-based sealant program. This program involves public health dental hygienists, private practice professionals, and Federally Qualified Health Centers to provide essential services like screenings, sealants, fluoride varnish treatments, and education across North Dakota.
During the 2023-2024 school year, SEAL!ND conducted screenings for 3,070 students. It applied 5,006 fluoride varnish applications and protected 8,531 teeth with sealants while making 1,817 referrals for further treatment.
“Schools are an ideal place to reach children, teachers and caregivers,” stated Toni Hruby, HHS oral health prevention coordinator. “Through collaboration with external partners, we are able to expand our reach and serve more children.”
North Dakota Medicaid also plays a role by supporting children's dental care through its Health Tracks benefit. This covers exams, cleanings, x-rays, sealants, and fluoride treatments without copays for qualifying families.
HHS provides several tips for maintaining good oral hygiene: brushing twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste; flossing daily; eating a balanced diet; drinking tap water; limiting sugary drinks; avoiding tobacco products; replacing toothbrushes regularly; and consulting dentists about preventive measures like fluoride varnish and sealants.
In addition to home care practices recommended by HHS for all ages in North Dakota is scheduling annual dental checkups. More information on oral health can be found at hhs.nd.gov/health/oral-health-program or by applying for North Dakota Medicaid at hhs.nd.gov/applyforhelp.
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