Children who do not visit the dentist are less likely to take part in school-based cavity prevention programs, according to research published in JAMA Network Open on Apr. 9.
The findings highlight a potential barrier for children at high risk for tooth decay, as those most in need of preventive services may be missing out. This gap could have significant implications for both children's health and healthcare costs.
"Our study suggests that children who may need these services the most are the ones least likely to receive them," said Shulamite Huang, a health economist and assistant professor of epidemiology and health promotion at NYU College of Dentistry. The study also found that increasing participation in statewide school dental programs among high-risk groups could save New York up to $2.4 million each year by reducing emergency department charges related to dental issues.
The researchers analyzed data from more than 63,000 Medicaid-covered children living in the Bronx, including over 1,000 who participated in local elementary school cavity prevention programs. They found that children with previous dental visits were more likely to join these programs, while those without prior dental care were 18 percent less likely to participate. Children with a history of dental emergencies were also less likely to enroll.
School-based cavity prevention initiatives use non-invasive treatments like sealants and require parents' consent for participation. New York State recently announced a $10 million plan aimed at expanding access to such programs and improving children's oral health across schools.
Huang said, "This has staggering implications for Medicaid costs." She added that enhancing recruitment strategies and focusing outreach on high-risk children could help save millions of dollars as New York expands its school-based dental care efforts.
