Governor Hochul has announced a $10 million investment to expand dental care services at school-based health centers across New York State, aiming to improve oral health outcomes for children. The initiative is part of her broader children’s health agenda and focuses on providing preventive and restorative dental care directly to students, especially those in low-income and high-risk communities.
School-based health centers provide free comprehensive primary and preventive care through interdisciplinary teams, including dentists, dental hygienists, physicians, nurses, and social workers. The program delivers dental services such as screenings, sealants, and treatments through fixed school sites, mobile clinics, and portable dental setups, ensuring children have access to care where they learn.
The funding will support the delivery of dental services for students who may not have regular access to oral care, cover costs not included by insurance, fund staffing and equipment, expand service capacity, and promote health equity in underserved areas. Over five years, 33 school-based health centers will receive funding, with operators required to report on service delivery, program impact, and dental outcomes such as screenings, sealants, and treatments provided.
Officials emphasize that good oral health is critical to a child’s overall wellbeing, preventing tooth decay, infections, and related learning or developmental difficulties. The program complements legislation signed by Governor Hochul in 2024, allowing broader access to fluoride treatments, which protect teeth from cavities and early-stage decay. Fluoride can be delivered through public drinking water, supplements, or dental products, depending on local availability.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to prioritize early dental care. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit within six months of the eruption of their first tooth or by the first birthday, followed by regular checkups based on individual oral health needs. Maintaining proper hygiene and accessing preventive care helps ensure healthy primary teeth, which are vital for eating, speaking, and setting the foundation for permanent teeth.
