The CDA Foundation and the Dental Health Foundation ,
in a joint venture, were awarded a 4-year, $7 million grant to deliver
the California Children and Families Commission's Oral Health Education
and Training Project. The project's goal is to educate 30,000 dental
professionals, 10,000 medical professionals and deliver intensive
training to 14,000 dental professionals and over 3,500 medical
professionals statewide. The education and training will consist of the
newest scientific information on dental disease prevention in children,
prenatal to 5 years, including those with disabilities and other special
needs. There are three target audiences in the project: dental
professionals, which include non-specialty dentists, hygienists,
assistants, and dental students; medical professionals, such as
pediatricians, family practice physicians, OB/GYNs, nurse practitioners
who work with young children, and medical residents. In addition, there
is a public focus, which will consist of educational programs for
parents and caregivers who will be reached through early childhood
educators, such as WIC, Head Start, First 5 School Readiness and
California Childhood Health Programs.
There are two groups that provide guidance and professional expertise in the field of oral health to this project. The Scientic Advisory Committee is
comprised of leading oral health experts from public health, private
practice and academia, represented by dentists, physicians (including
pediatrician), dental hygienists, dental assistants and special needs
field. The Oversight Committee which
encompass representatives from First 5 County Commissions, Diversity
Council, Special Needs Project and the Scientific Advisory Committee.
