PMH1 - Expanding Access to Oral Health for Medically Underserved Children and Families Through Tele-dentistry Innovation

Session Description: Childhood dental disease is one of the most prevalent yet preventable chronic conditions in the U.S., often leading to poor nutrition, academic challenges, and costly emergency care. Finger Lakes Community Health (FLCH) created a comprehensive tele-dental strategy to address gaps in dental access for rural and underserved populations.

This session will highlight how FLCH integrates store-and-forward dental exams, virtual fluoride supervision, and family engagement to prevent disease and strengthen continuity of care. Programs like Brushing for Two prioritize pregnant women’s oral health to reduce bacterial transmission and improve outcomes. The Head Start Outreach Program delivers telehealth-supported education and screenings, while School-Based Store-and-Forward Care connects children with remote dentists where on-site providers are unavailable.

The model pairs tele-dentistry with care management services to address transportation, insurance, and other barriers to care. Attendees will gain practical, replicable strategies to expand oral health equity, track measurable outcomes, and demonstrate cost savings. This session empowers CHCs to lead innovation in oral health, reduce disparities, and achieve the Quintuple Aim.