The Modoc County Oral Health Project

 

The Focus of the project is to increase the number of children 0-5 who receive dental screenings, prevention and treatment for early childhood caries (ECC) as well as improving the oral health of pregnant women.  The project includes education related to oral health, and dental screens for uninsured clients of the target population.

 

Modoc County Public Health had concerns about dental issues during pregnancy as well as in early childhood. Recent studies have shown that periodontal disease can adversely affect pregnancy outcomes. In addition, mothers can transmit the bacteria responsible for cavities to their young children. Children with ECC and inadequate dental care may have significant pain, nutritional problems and developmental delays. In fact, dental problems in early childhood can have lifelong repercussions.