Discourse in Dentistry: Our Sincere Gratitude

As we close out 2022 here at Arcora Foundation, we’d like to take a moment to deliver some big thanks! 

First, we want to recognize our 2022 Oral Health Heroes: Teresita Batayola, President and former CEO of International Community Health Services, and the Health Care Authority Dental Team. Because of your tireless efforts and dedication, Washington is a healthier and more equitable place. I invite you to visit Arcora Foundation's website and learn more about their invaluable contributions to improving oral health in Washington state. 

To our state’s Apple Health (Medicaid) dental providers and their staff: You have stood like redwoods in a forest of evergreens. Thank you for giving your talents and time to serving so many this year. 

To our community partners throughout the state: Your work inspires us every day, and your commitment to better health with no one left behind is worthy of the greatest of praises. 

And finally, to the DentistLink team: During a year of tremendous growth and demand, you stood with those in need of care and truly changed lives, one connection at a time. 

I look forward to our continued partnership into 2023. If you have feedback or ideas on how we can continue to improve oral health for all in the new year, my inbox is always open. 

Smile Survey to begin in January

The Smile Survey (Basic Screening Survey in Washington) is the most comprehensive source of children’s oral health surveillance data in our state. The data provides a point in time look at: 

• Rates of treated and untreated decay, including rampant decay.  
• Rates of dental sealant application.  
• Trends over the history of the survey. 

The last Smile Survey was completed during the 2015-16 school year. This survey is usually conducted every five years. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed the 2020 screenings until the 2022-23 school year. 

Starting in January 2023 through the end of the school year, dental providers will perform screenings on children in second and third grades in communities across the state. This hands-on data collection activity will provide much-needed insight into the current oral health status of Washington children, including the impacts of the pandemic and access to dental care. 

To learn more about the Smile Survey and its findings visit the Arcora Foundation website. 

Capital funding available for safety net dental programs

Arcora Foundation’s Capital Clinic Access (CCA) grants provide safety net dental programs—including Federally Qualified Health Centers, Tribal, and nonprofit dental clinics—with funding to expand their programs to serve more people. Black, Indigenous, and communities of color that experience oral health disparities and face challenges accessing dental care are a particular focus. Awards range from $50,000 - $250,000 per project.



Letters of intent are due Jan. 20, 2023. Visit the Arcora Foundation website to learn more and submit for funding.

We're going on a DAIT!

Meet our PNDC drone winner (and see you next summer)

Another successful year of continuing education

Upcoming SmileMobile schedule

There SmileMobile examined more than 1,400 patients in 2022 and is gearing up for 2023. Volunteer to provide care on the SmileMobile at a clinic near you and earn CDE credits—up to 7 credits for dentists and up to 5 credits for hygienists. Half-day and full-day volunteer slots are available at all clinics.

If you have any questions about the SmileMobile or would like to get involved as a volunteer, contact Karri Amundson at kamundson@arcorafoundation.org. 

Explore our calendar of 2023 events

Do you have events coming up in the new year? Please share with us at info@arcorafoundation.org.

Order free brochures and posters through our online portal.

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Know others who may benefit from this newsletter? They can join our mailing list here. If you have ideas on how our communications can better serve you and your team, email us at info@arcorafoundation.org.

You are receiving this email because you previously joined us in our efforts to bend the arc of oral health toward equity or opted in via our website. We thank you for your valued partnership.