Expanding Dental Hygiene to Include Dental Therapy: Improving Access to Care for Children (Critical Issues in Dental Hygiene) (Report‪)‬

Introduction Oral Health in America: A Report of the Surgeon General, and the subsequent National Call to Action to Promote Oral Health contributed significantly to raising the awareness of the American public and the dental profession regarding the problems associated with gaining the benefits of oral health for all Americans. (1,2) Oral Health in America documented the lack of access to oral health care by many Americans, especially minorities and low income populations, with the resultant existence of significant disparities in oral health. The Surgeon General's efforts have prompted major discussions regarding how to improve access to care and reduce disparities.