Policy Statement on School-Based Oral Health Programs (SBOHP)

 

Purpose:

The Washington State Oral Health Coalition (WSOHC) recognizes oral health as a critical component of overall health, academic success, and well-being. To address disparities in access to dental care and improve health outcomes for youth, we strongly support the implementation, expansion, and sustainability of school-based oral health programs (SBOHPs) across our communities. This public health approach to oral health in school age children is an effective approach to prevent and manage oral disease.

Background:

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases—yet it is largely preventable. Children from low-income families and underserved communities often face significant barriers to accessing routine dental care, leading to untreated dental disease, missed school time, and compromised learning. SBOHPs can deliver preventive and restorative dental services directly in schools, reducing barriers such as transportation, cost, and time away from class or work for parents and caregivers.

Policy:

The WSOHC supports policies and practices that:

1. Promote Access and Equity
   Ensure that all children, especially those in historically underserved communities and with increased risk for oral disease have access to school-based oral health services.
2. Support Preventive and Restorative Service Models
   Advocate for the inclusion of a full range of dental services in schools, including minimally invasive dentistry* strategies, that addresses the needs of the community and student body.
3. Encourage Collaborative Partnerships
   Foster partnerships between schools, public health agencies, dental professionals, and community organizations to support integrated and sustainable oral health programs.
4. Ensure Adequate Funding and Reimbursement
   Promote policies that secure adequate funding for SBOHPs, including reimbursement and public/private investments to support infrastructure, staffing, and supplies.
5. Advance Data Collection and Program Evaluation
   Support data-driven approaches that monitor program outcomes, improve service delivery, and demonstrate impact on student health and academic performance.

Responsibilities:

1. School Districts: Partner with local SBOHPs to support student health and maximize learning time through place-based care models
2. Dental Community: Collaborate and coordinate with SBOHPs to ensure continuity of care, strengthen community-wide prevention efforts and reduce barriers to oral health access.
3. SBOHPs: Follow evidence informed guidelines and practices in program design and delivery as outlined in the Washington State School Based Sealant and Fluoride Varnish Program Guidelines .
4. Review and Evaluation:
   This policy will be reviewed as new evidence and strategies become available, to ensure alignment with best practices.

Adoption:

This policy is effective as of 11.03.2025and has been approved by WSOHC

*See WSOHC Policy Statement on Minimally Invasive Dentistry.