The Path to Advance Drinking Water Equity in Virginia

Black History Month: Black Oral Health Champions

Ongoing systemic racism and unequal impacts of the pandemic contribute to many oral health and health care disparities that adversely impact the overall health and well-being of Black people in America.

One way to address these inequities? A more diverse oral health workforce. Read the latest blog post about Black oral health champions from history who worked to advance racial equity in dentistry.  

In case you missed it: We had an engaging conversation with project partners about the key takeaways from the Disconnect Impact Story, including strategies to address racism in health care. We also talked about the fact that we must continually listen and learn to make equitable changes in the oral health system. Reach out to Brita Allen if you want to continue this conversation. 

Data Bytes: SDF Prevents Cavities in School-Based Programs

In a recent clinical trial, researchers found that using silver diamine fluoride (SDF) with fluoride varnish (FV) is at least as good at stopping and preventing cavities as dental sealants. Almost 1400 children were treated with either SDF with FV or glass ionomer sealants with FV in a school-based cavity prevention program, CariedAway. Participating schools had to have a student population of >50% Hispanic or Latino ethnicity and/or Black, and at least 80% of students receiving free or reduced lunch.

The results of the study support the use of SDF in school-based oral health programs as a successful tool to prevent and stop tooth decay in children. Learn about implementing SDF in Virginia here.

Community Conversations: 2022 Virginia Oral Health Report Card

Join us for a lunch-and-learn webinar on March 22, 12:00-12:45 PM to launch the 2022 Virginia Oral Health Report Card. Virginia scored an overall grade of C+ in our efforts to improve oral health across the Commonwealth -- we can do better!

As an update to the 2016 Report Card, this tool helps track our progress, renews our focus, and sparks innovations to achieve our goal of a healthier Virginia. Learn more on March 22!

Sponsor the Catalyst Annual Summit!

The 2023 Catalyst Annual Summit is on Friday, October 6 in Richmond, VA. We’re in the midst of planning another engaging event highlighting innovative health programs, theories, and leaders.

Interested in sponsoring the Summit? Your organization can show a commitment to improving the health of Virginians while also getting in front of a diverse audience of hundreds of thought-leaders. There are new and unique sponsorship opportunities – check out the 2023 Summit Sponsorship menu, and reach out to Danny Hillard to talk more! 

2023 Federal Poverty Guidelines

In January, HHS updated the poverty guidelines for individuals and households, as they do every year. The new guidelines determine eligibility for state and federal services like Head Start programs, SNAP, CHIP, or the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. 

Individualized Dental Care Trainings

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