Oral Health

There is a strong relationship between oral health and overall health. Studies have shown a link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, stroke, respiratory infections, diabetes, osteoporosis, HIV and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Oral diseases significantly affect all facets of life, especially for minority, rural and low-income populations facing barriers to accessing dental care.
 
The Foundation created the Oral Health Priority Area to help improve the oral health of underserved children and adults by supporting projects that increase access to preventive oral health care, regular dental visits and dental education  Areas of focus include:

• Prevention Strategies (such as application of fluoride varnish)
• Education, such as public awareness activities and oral health training for physicians
• Capacity Building
• Public Policy advocacy activities

Since 2008, 21 organizations have received more than $2.4 million in funding for oral health programs.  Those organizations are listed here under Grant Funded Projects. The Fact Sheet will provide you with more information on the Oral Health Priority Area.