Risk Indicators of Urgent and Extensive Dental Treatment Needs in U.S. Air Force Recruits.

Introduction: Dental Readiness Classifications (DRCs) enable the Military Health System to prioritize dental care in garrison, minimizing dental emergencies and mission degradation during deployments. Over half (52.4%) of 2008 military recruits presented with high-priority urgent needs classified as DRC3 upon initial dental examination and 18.

Perinatal Oral Health Among Underserved Women: A Call to Action for North Carolina Patients, Providers and Policymakers.

Introduction: Knowledge gaps exist among providers and pregnant women about the importance and safety of oral health care around pregnancy. This article describes the current state of perinatal oral health and healthcare among underserved women in North Carolina (NC) and provides policy recommendations to improve their access to and utilization of dental services.

Methods: A descriptive analysis is provided using (a) 2016 oral health surveillance data of a convenience sample of 459 pregnant women across NC, (b) 2014-2016 Medicaid dental provider and dental services utilization data for the Medicaid for Pregnant Women (MPW) program, and (c) 2017 Medicaid dental benefits policy.

Oral health status of adults in North Carolina assisted living facilities.

Objectives: The specific aims of this study were to describe the baseline oral health status of persons residing in North Carolina assisted living facilities and determine how identified oral health problems vary according to resident and facility demographic variables.

Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive epidemiologic study used a statewide random sample of 40 assisted living facilities and a convenience sample of 854 assisted living residents. Dental hygienists and dentists conducted oral screenings on residents using the Association of State and Territorial Dental Director's Basic Screening Survey for Older Adults tool.