Oral Health
Improving the oral health care system by increasing access, enhancing workforce development and supporting quality and innovation.
Why we prioritize oral health
The Foundation recognizes oral health as a pressing issue for all South Carolinians, particularly the economically vulnerable.
Poor oral health can diminish overall quality of life – with implications including chronic disease, increased health care costs and decreased employability prospects.
- An estimated 40% of adults in South Carolina did not visit a dentist in 2016.
- 1.6 million people in South Carolina live in an area where there are not enough dentists.
- Far too many children in SC have untreated cavities – as much as 20% in some counties.
Pillars
The following pillars will guide our work to improve oral health over the next several years:
Access
Dental care is accessible to South Carolinians, particularly low-income children, through means that reduce barriers to care and improve oral health outcomes.
Workforce
SC has a dental workforce that is increasingly diverse and equipped to meet the needs of underserved populations across the state.
Quality and Value
Foster a culture of quality improvement and innovation in the SC oral health care system to demonstrate improved health outcomes and lowered costs.
