In a campaign aimed at increasing the understanding of the link between oral health and overall health, the Massachusetts Dental Society is calling for children entering kindergarten to receive mandatory oral exams. By requiring these exams, the society hopes to encourage good oral health habits at as early an age as possible. These mandatory exams could help introduce young children to dental care early in life and also broaden the understanding of dental needs of individuals from different demographic groups.

 

Vaccinations and physical exams are currently required, but entry-level oral exams performed by dentists in both public and private schools across the state are being promoted. These kindergarten exams would be covered by health insurance, and for those who do not have coverage the society will provide volunteer dentists to perform exams.

 

“The entry level of oral health and overall health would improve across the state,” said David S. Samuels, the Massachusetts Dental Society president. Poor dental health is related to a number of chronic diseases that occur in both childhood and adulthood, and include diabetes and obesity, among others health issues.

 

If the bill for these mandatory exams is approved, the Massachusetts Dental Society will work with the state Department of Education and local school districts in order to begin the process of exam implementation.

 

Review of:

Flynn, Jack. (July 10, 2009). “Massachusetts Dental Society calls for mandatory dental exams for children entering kindergarten.” By The Republican Newsroom. Retrieved July 22, 2009, from http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/07/massachusetts_dental_society_c.html?category=Education+category=Springfield