Oral health is essential to overall health. Yet, too many Ohioans go without dental care. They live in pain, miss school or work and, in extreme cases, develop life-threatening infections.
Poor oral health increases our risk of stroke, heart disease – including fatal heart attacks – and diabetes. It can lead to respiratory infections like pneumonia and bone mass loss in older women. Dental therapists can provide our families with the care they need to help prevent these health issues.
Other states – and 52 other countries worldwide – are already using Dental Therapists to expand access to affordable dental care. Every study conducted on these providers shows they provide safe, quality care in the communities where it is needed most.
Please sign this petition to tell your legislators now is the time to create Dental Therapists in Ohio.