September 26, 2005

Michigan Department of Community Health Director Janet Olszewski today announced approval of the state’s first oral health plan, which will mean better dental health for thousands of Michigan citizens in the future.

“Michigan is one of the first states in the country to recognize the connection between oral health and overall health in the form of an action plan. It is more apparent than ever that oral health is an integral part of primary health care,” Olszewski said.

Child advocates, medical and dental providers, dental schools, organized dentistry and leading health care agencies have worked in partnership with MDCH to develop a plan to improve the oral health of Michigan’s citizens. The coalition represents a broad group of stakeholders who are committed to improving oral health in Michigan, she said.

The state’s Oral Health Plan recommends that Michigan:

o Develop a statewide oral health surveillance system to provide sources for health data

o Increase access to oral health services in medically underserved communities

o Develop a state level dental director leadership position to serve as the focal point of oral health activity in Michigan

o Create and maintain a process for responding to the demand for oral health professionals

o Develop a system of care that ensures access to oral health services for low-income and uninsured populations

o Encourage health care providers to discuss the oral effects of tobacco use with patients

o Develop a statewide education program aimed at increasing knowledge of the relationship between oral health and overall health

“We have a proven track record of success here in Michigan – our Healthy Kids Dental program has been adopted by the American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry as a model program for other states to follow,” said Dr. Daniel M. Briskie, Dentist and Chairman of the Michigan Oral Health Coalition. “The Michigan Oral Health Coalition will continue to work together in partnership with MDCH to implement the plan.”

Briskie said poor oral health contributes to problems such as low birth weight and premature babies, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Poor oral health also negatively impacts a child’s quality of life, including their self-esteem, and impedes their ability to obtain adequate nutrition, he said.