Local Oral Health Program (LOHP)

Local Oral Health Program.

PHS Local Oral Health Program has been established, in partnership with the San Joaquin Treatment + Education for Everyone on Teeth + Health (SJ TEETH) Coalition, to improve dental health in the County, with a special focus on reaching the most vulnerable and underserved communities. The program is made possible by Proposition 56, the California Healthcare Research and Prevention Tobacco Tax Act of 2016 and administered through the California Department of Public Health, Oral Health Program.

Building on a strategic plan created in partnership with SJ TEETH in 2018, the Local Oral Health Program will focus on six key areas to improve oral health:

Local Oral Health Program.
  1.  Oral Health Workforce
  2.  Access to Dental Services
  3.  Oral Health Education & Promotion
  4.  Integration of Medical & Dental Care
  5.  Countywide Coordination of Oral Health Services
  6.  Evaluation

For more information about SJ TEETH or oral health resources, visit www.SJTEETH.org

Community Resources:

Parent Resources:

Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment Resources:

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Dental Provider Resources:

Sign-up to be a Medi-Cal Dental Provider

Many San Joaquin County families are in need of essential dental services. Choosing to offer dental services to Medi-Cal recipients helps provide crucial dental services to those who need it most in our community and offers a personal and rewarding experience to providers and staff. Meet Medi-Cal Dentist Dr. Azad below and discover what it means to be a dental hero:

Medical Provider Resources

Dental Care is Medical Care

Both medical and dental professionals realize that certain health conditions may often be related other conditions or health habits. Oral health is a key component to maintaining overall health. When patients take an interest in their oral health, their physical and mental health often improve. Educating patients on the effects of poor oral health in medical practices can help bridge this gap in patient knowledge. When medical providers and dental providers partner to prevent poor oral health, everyone wins.

Medical conditions linked to poor oral health

Endocarditis – An infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers or valves (endocardium) typically occurring when bacteria or other germs from another part of the body, such as your mouth, spread through the bloodstream and attach to certain areas in the heart.

Cardiovascular disease - The connection is not fully understood, but some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke are linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.

Pregnancy and birth complications - Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.

Pneumonia - Certain bacteria in the mouth can be pulled into the lungs, causing pneumonia and other respiratory diseases.

Health conditions that can impact oral health

Diabetes - By reducing the body's resistance to infection, diabetes puts the gums at risk. Research shows that people who have gum disease find it more difficult to control blood sugar levels. Gum disease also appears to be more frequent and more severe among people living with diabetes. Periodontal care can often improve diabetes control.

HIV/AIDS - Painful sores often appear in the mouth, which can lead to subpar or less often daily care, creating a vicious cycle of poor oral health.

Osteoporosis – Linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss due to bone-weakening. Also, certain drugs used to treat osteoporosis carry a small risk of damage to jaw bones.

Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias – Many persons often lack the capacity to care for their oral health while suffering from Alzheimer’s, especially in the later stages.

Additional Resources:

California Department of Public Health, Office of Oral Health
San Joaquin County Oral Health Needs Assessment, 2018
Oral Health Strategic Plan, 2018 – 2022

Tooth Be Told - SJ TEETH Newsletter: