County has options for treating kids

Thanks very much for your recent attention to the importance of starting oral health for children at age 1 (Nov. 18 article and Dec. 1 editorial). Too many children have advanced tooth decay by the time they are 3 or 4, the usual age of a first dental visit. Prevention must start earlier, especially for high-risk children. Allow me to add some valuable information for your readers

Dental services for children under age 3 are available in Snohomish County for those with Medicaid. The Snohomish Health District, in partnership with the Snohomish County Dental Society, the University of Washington, the Washington Dental Service Foundation and the Medical Assistance Administration, has facilitated training in very early pediatric techniques for 33 local dentists since 2001

Finding a dentist for children on Medicaid or without insurance can be a frustrating experience for parents. Since 1995 the Snohomish Health District has sustained referral networks with local dentists that accept Medicaid payment for children up to 18 years old. In 2001, the Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD) program allowed us to focus on the development of local dental resources for very early preventive care.

For help finding a dentist, call the Health District’s Dental Resource Line at 425-339-5219 or visit our Web site at www.snohd.org/comhealth/

dental/oral.html.

Public Health Dental Hygienist

Snohomish Health District