Oral health is an integral part of the overall health of children. The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the American Association of Public Health Dentistry all recommend a dental visit for children by 1 year of age. Although pediatricians have the opportunity to provide an early assessment of risk for dental caries and preventive guidance, it is also important that children establish a dental home. A dental home is an ongoing relationship between the dentist and the patient, inclusive of all aspects of oral health care delivered in a comprehensive, continuously accessible, coordinated, and family-centered way.
The New Jersey Chapter, of the American Academy of Pediatrics (NJAAP), received funding through the NJ Division of Disability Services, to develop educational opportunities for individuals with disabilities (children and adults) participating in the NJ Family Care Program.
Archived Webinars & Slides for Parents and Advocates
Community Webinar Series
- The Dynamic Duo: Oral Health and Dental Care for People with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) Disabilities
- Preparing Individuals with Disabilities for a Dental Visit
- Parent as a Coach: Helping Navigate Your Child’s Oral Health Experiences
- English – Speaker: Purnima Hernandez, DDS, MA, BCBA (Video)
Oral Health Policy Roundtable Discussions
- HEADs UP Act: A Proposed Bill Designating People with Intellectual Disabilities a Medically Underserved Population
- How can Medicaid Support Providers Caring for Adults with I/DD – Focus Group Findings
Resources
- What to Ask When Contacting a Dental Office Guide Sheet (2022) (English) (Spanish)
- Brush Up on Oral Health – Association of State & Territorial Dental Directors (2020)
- Rutgers Clinic – Delta Dental Of New Jersey Special Care Center (2021)
- Oral Health Services For Children And Adolescents With Special Health Care Needs: A Resource Guide – National Maternal and Child Oral Health Resource Center
- Oral Health Families with Special Health Care Needs Resource Guide (2021)– South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Division of Oral Health (2007): Touches upon topics such as choosing the right toothbrush, encouraging proper nutrition, finding the right dentist, and addressing challenges that may arise
- What to do Before, During and After your Child’s Dental Appointment (2010) – University of Washington: Dental Fact Sheets for Children with all different types of Special Needs (E.g. Autism, Cleft Lip, Down Syndrome)
This initiative was funded (or funded in part) by an Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant from the Division of Disability Services, New Jersey Department of Human Services.
