This post originally appeared as an op-ed in the Herald Leader, Kentucky Health News, and Northern Kentucky Tribune in July 2021. By Dr. Stephanie Poynter and Linda Poynter, PHRDH, BHS  Like many Kentuckians, we are eager for a summer of “back-to-normal” activities – backyard BBQs with neighbors, family trips to our favorite state parks, and evenings at the county fair.  One big “back-to-normal” activity for families across the Commonwealth this summer is reviewing that ever-growing back-to-school checklist. As a dentist and dental hygienist and committed members [...]

Throughout June, KOHC has been celebrating National Oral Health Month with new topics each week highlighting the importance of oral health and healthy choices for overall wellbeing. We know that oral health is closely tied to overall health and caring for your oral health goes beyond brushing and flossing your teeth each day. A good oral health routine includes regular screenings for oral cancer, dental hygiene and routine check-ups, and healthy food and beverage choices. [...]

Guest post by Dr. Pam VanArsdall, professor at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry and the Education Director of the grant Eradicate Oral Cancer in Eastern Kentucky.   From 2013-2017 Kentucky had the highest rate of oral cancer in the nation. We know that there are several risk factors for developing oral cancer that can be avoided by making healthy choices for your mouth and body. Tobacco use is the number one risk factor [...]

During the month of June, KOHC is recognizing National Oral Health Month with a new topic each week. After a focus on the systemic connections between oral health and overall health last week, we are shifting our focus to the importance of making healthy choices and the ways federal and state investments can support oral health. We know that making healthy choices each day can have a big impact on our overall health and wellbeing, [...]

In the month of June, KOHC is celebrating National Oral Health Month and the importance of caring for your oral health as part of your overall health. KOHC often promotes easy ways to care for your oral hygiene – an important part of your daily routine – but we know that oral health goes beyond just brushing and flossing your teeth each day. Oral health includes taking care of your mouth by getting regular check-ups [...]

Yippee! Summer is just around the corner and many of us are ready for “all things summer”! It’s time to enjoy drive-in movies which will likely include a trip to the concession stand for soda, popcorn, and candy. Perhaps a day at a state fair or local carnival where vendors make it nearly impossible to deny the indulgence of a sticky, sweet candy apple. Who doesn’t like to bring home saltwater taffy for family and [...]

The recent announcement from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to begin the process of banning all menthol flavoring in cigarettes and cigars is a huge step in reducing youth and young adult tobacco addiction, addressing health equity, and improving oral health and overall health outcomes. This announcement ensures that the FDA’s next steps will be establishing rules and an opportunity for public comment on the ban of menthol flavoring in cigarettes and all flavoring [...]

Dear kids and their caregivers,  May is here, and you know what that means: the sweet treats of summer, crunchy fruit perfect for pulling out loose teeth, and National Dental Care Month. Between encouraging people to avoid sugary drinks, the influx of teeth under pillows in order to earn some summer spending money, and reminding everyone about the importance of dental care, this Fairy is WORN OUT.  I really do love my job, but…here’s the thing: I don’t get [...]

  KOHC is committed to improving the outcomes for all by ensuring equitable access and representation in oral health. We do this by looking at available data to establish the current landscape, identify disparities in oral health, and develop solutions to reduce these disparities. Additionally, we convene oral health advocates and stakeholders to help us advocate for policies that advance oral health in the Commonwealth. The American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute recently published a series [...]

As we move into a new month and warmer temperatures, KOHC is taking time to celebrate National Dental Care Month in May. This month-long celebration is a chance for oral health professionals, parents, teachers, advocates, and community members to build awareness about the importance of preventive dental care for individuals of all ages. During Dental Care Month everyone can take care of their teeth both at home and at the dental office. Caring for your [...]