KOHC is committed to recognizing the important role dental hygienists play within the dental team and community. As we wrap up National Dental Hygiene Month, we are highlighting two resilient Kentucky hygienists. Enjoy reading why these dental hygienists chose their profession, the challenges presented and their hopes for the future in the following interviews. Pam Barnes - RDH and Kentucky Oral Health Coalition Member Why did you become a dental hygienist? “I wanted to help [...]

Building strong families and communities is the key to unlocking the potential of our next generation. Unfortunately, Kentucky has the second highest percentage of adult smokers and is among the highest in the nation for youth who use tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and vapes. Those who use tobacco products experience negative impacts to their oral health and overall health. We know that investing in prevention and cessation is an important step to reduce these rates, [...]

As we continue our recognition of National Dental Hygiene Month, we are highlighting the ways that everyone can take care of their dental hygiene at home and the dental office. Taking care of your teeth starts at home with your everyday routine – so be sure to include dental hygiene practices each day including: Brushing your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day. Flossing your teeth once a day. Limiting sugary drinks and choosing fluoridated [...]

As we enter week two of Dental Hygiene Month, KOHC is highlighting the importance of treating the whole person. And, to treat the whole person, our health system needs to recognize and bridge the silos between medical care and dental care. We know there is a strong connection between good oral health and overall health. The mouth acts as a gateway to the rest of the body and can be an indicator for other health [...]

As we move into fall, pumpkins and ghosts are popping up everywhere, but there’s more to celebrate in October than just Halloween. KOHC is excited to take part in recognizing October as National Dental Hygiene Month. This month is an opportunity to promote good dental hygiene for individuals of all ages and recognize the important role that dental hygienists play as part of the health team and community.   KOHC is celebrating National Dental Hygiene [...]

KOHC believes that everyone deserves to have access to the oral health care that they need. However, many adults do not have dental benefits, including those on Medicare – the federal insurance program for individuals with a disability or over age 65. Right now, legislation is moving forward in the House and being negotiated in the Senate to provide funding for a dental benefit to those on Medicare Part B, but we need your support! [...]

As we continue to navigate the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity remains a challenge that many Americans are facing. September is Hunger Awareness Month, offering a chance to reflect on the hunger rates among children and their families, and explore the opportunities for policy changes that will support all Americans in accessing healthy food for their families. Throughout the pandemic, the US Census Bureau has been collecting weekly data on food security through [...]

If you missed Grandparent’s Day September 12th, it’s not too late to Do Something Grand! What better way to continue the celebration than coming together as we commemorate Intergenerational Month throughout September! Together, adults and youth can reach out to decision-makers and begin one of the most important dialogues in our history: discussing how, as a country, we can address the many challenges facing senior citizens - from health and wellness to financial stability. One [...]

Pregnancy is a time that brings many changes for women but one thing that should not change during pregnancy is maintaining optimal oral health. Even before a child is born, their oral health is linked to the oral health of their mother which is why taking care of your teeth during pregnancy is so important. Children of mothers with high levels of untreated cavities and tooth loss are three times more likely to have cavities [...]

Keeping kids safe is an adult responsibility. Sharing information about recognizing child abuse and neglect equips adults with the knowledge and tools needed to understand the warning signs, how to report suspicious bruising, and ways to support families to prevent it from happening in the first place. Oral health professionals play a unique and important role in the prevention, recognition, and reporting of child maltreatment.  This October, the Kosair Charities Face It Movement is once [...]