Dental care is the single most unmet healthcare need in children with special health care needs. Dental diseases can be prevented with accurate, up-to-date knowledge about the importance of good oral health and nutrition, proper oral hygiene care, and preventive services performed early in a child's life. If left untreated, dental disease can lead to lifelong oral health problems. Children with special health care needs are almost twice as likely to have untreated decay. Early intervention, including a dental visit by age one, can help prevent dental disease from becoming one more special health care need for a family to address. Parents/caregivers, educators, medical professionals and dental professionals all play an important role in the oral health of a child.
The Division of Dental Health has expanded the Bright Smiles for Babies program to provide training programs, presentations, educational materials and resources about oral health for parents/caregivers and other providers of children with special health care needs.
Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) Oral Health:
Fluoride Varnish Information
For more information:
Kami A. Piscitelli, BSDH, RDH
Phone: (804) 864-7804
Department of Health - Division of Dental Health
109 Governor St., 9th Flr., Richmond, VA 23219
Phone: (804) 864-7775 • FAX: (804) 864-7783
