Frequently Asked Questions
Resources
The Indian Health Service (IHS) Dental Program has the broad mission to support American Indian individuals and groups as they strive to improve their oral health. Oral diseases continue to be a significant health problem in the American Indian population. IHS Dental Program objectives address: reducing dental decay in children; reducing periodontal disease in children and adults; and fluoridating community water systems.
Dental decay rates of American Indian children and adolescents are twice the national average. Health Promotion and Disease Prevention is the key strategy in the fight against decay, including:
Caregiver counseling
Early dental exam (about one year)
Risk Assessment
Preventative measures (fluoride, sealants)
Periodontal disease has a high prevalence in American Indian populations. Strategies to improve periodontal health among both adults and children include:
Early education (Head Start, school based education)
Diabetes/Periodontal Disease Treatment Protocol
Chemotherapeutic measures
Discourage tobacco/alcohol use
Fluoride use is cornerstone upon which dental disease prevention programs are built. Sources of fluoride promoted include:
Fluoridated water supply
Topical fluoride and varnish application
Fluoridated toothpaste
In California there are currently nearly 50 dental clinics operated by tribal/urban health programs. The California Area Office provides technical assistance on dental issues through the Area Dental Officer. In addition, our office sponsors an Annual Dental Conference, meetings of the Dental Advisory Committee and sponsors additional continuing education courses.
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Frequently Asked Questions has answers to some of the most commonly asked questioned about the Dental Program.
Resources links and documents to support health professionals.
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Dental decay is at near epidemic levels for young children in our communities. There are a number steps dental professionals can do to reduce incidence of dental decay, including; early dental examination (beginning before a child's first birthday), the application of dental sealants, and the application of fluoride varnish. The IHS California Area Office and the Dental Support Center announced a Challenge for Tribal and Urban Health Clinics to promote these preventative measures in young children. For details please contact Steve.Riggio@ihs.gov or call (916) 930-3937 ext. 322.
Electronic Dental Record
The Electronic Dental Record (EDR) is a computer system and software program that can store and replicate all of the information kept in the dental chart. EDR has undergone pilot-testing and Dentrix has been selected. There are many questions about the current status of the electronic dental record initiative within the Indian Health Service. Dr. Chiarchiaro, who is leading this initiative, has put together a fact sheet (PDF 16KB) to answer some of your questions.
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Steve Riggio, DDS
(steve.riggio@ihs.gov)
650 Capitol Mall, Suite 7-100
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 930-3937 ext. 322
FAX: (916) 930-3953
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