June is the month that brings sunny skies, summer break, and vacations but it also serves a National Oral Health Month – a time to recognize the role that everyone plays in improving oral health for themselves and those around them.  

Whether you are a dental team member providing oral health care to patients everyday or a parent trying to ensure your child has optimal oral health, there are steps you can take to achieve better oral health outcomes. To encourage intentional actions to improve oral health, KOHC is highlighting some steps you can take – and maybe some you haven’t thought about before.  

  1. Take note of things in your everyday life that impact oral health – be mindful of the foods and drinks you consume, practice daily oral hygiene at home, and teach good habits to those around you.   
  2. Be proactive to achieve optimal outcomes – visit the dentist twice a year for routine care, follow treatment recommendation, and perform oral cancer screenings at home.  
  3. Take steps to become an oral health champion – be an active member of the Kentucky Oral Health Coalition (KOHC) and other groups working to improve oral health such as the Oral Health Progress and Equity Network (OPEN).  
  4. Stay informed about issues that impact oral health – follow groups like KOHC and OPEN as they monitor policy changes that impact oral health access and care in Kentucky and nationwide.  
  5. Take action to improve oral health in Kentucky – reach out to the elected officials that represent you. Educate them on the importance of oral health and advocate for the issues that matter to you.  

Making a big difference for the oral health of Kentucky starts with small steps and everyone has a role to play in improving outcomes in their community. Join KOHC as we celebrate National Oral Health Month and work to achieve optimal oral health for everyone.