A variety of factors influence the ability of this vulnerable patient population to access professional Dental care.

The COVID-19 pandemic thrust teledentistry into the spotlight, illuminating its many advantages in increasing access to care.

The dental prevention coordinator can make a big difference in the oral health of vulnerable populations.

The addition of another dental therapy educational program in a rural area stands to make a significant difference in access to care.

Medical-dental integration is key in the effort to improve patients’ overall health.

By offering further education in dental hygiene, the science 
and practice of the profession will advance.

This midlevel practitioner who works on nontribal land shares her insight into the importance of the dental therapist provider.

Dental hygienists are well-equipped to advocate for improving access to care for the Nation’s most vulnerable populations.

By reducing healthcare disparities, providing nonjudgmental care, and addressing areas of high risk, oral health professionals can play a unique role in encouraging oral and systemic health in this patient population.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, many oral health professionals have embraced teledentistry as an effective means of delivering care.