Marshall, Durbin Introduce New Legislation To Bolster Public Health Efforts To Improve Dental Health

The Promoting Dental Health Act would extend funding for CDC’s Oral Health program for the next five years

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS) and Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced new bipartisan legislation, the Promoting Dental Health Act, to reauthorize funding the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Oral Health program for the next five years.  The Oral Health program receives $20.5 million in annual funding for a range of public health activities to promote oral health.  This funding is allocated to 20 states to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other painful and serious conditions, including by supporting dental education, data collection, school-based sealant care for low-income children, state fluoridation efforts, workforce development, and research into gaps in patient care. 

“As a physician, I cannot stress enough the importance of prioritizing your oral health and dental care,” Senator Marshall said. “Reauthorizing critical funding for this Oral Health program will help our Kansas communities promote good oral health habits and prevent disease. I’m proud to partner with Senator Durbin in introducing bipartisan legislation to keep this successful program going and help Kansans and Illinoisans alike.” 

“Dental care is a fundamental part of staying healthy.  It’s imperative that oral health care is easily accessible and adequately funded so that Illinoisans, regardless of their economic status, can see a dental professional and prevent serious complications,” Senator Durbin said.  “The Promoting Dental Health Act, a bipartisan effort with Senator Marshall, will ensure that the CDC Oral Health program has the resources necessary to serve more Americans, including through efforts in Illinois.”

“The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry applauds the Senators’ bipartisan effort to reauthorize the CDC oral health program, continuing support for states and local communities to monitor and prevent dental disease and build healthy water infrastructure, among other initiatives positively impacting the oral health of children and families,” said Scott W. Cashion, D.D.S., M.S., President, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD).

The Promoting Dental Health Act has earned endorsements from the American Dental Association (ADA), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), and National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD).

You may click HERE to read the full bill text.