The Oral Health Bureau is now the Oral Health Center and is a part of the Bureau of Oral and Health Delivery Systems (OHDS)!
Oral Health Mission
Protecting the health and wellness of every Iowan through the prevention and early detection of dental disease and through the promotion of optimal oral health.
What We Do
The Oral Health Center promotes and advances health behaviors to reduce the risk of oral diseases and improve the oral health status of all Iowans. Programs are in place targeting pregnant women, children, and youth for the prevention, early identification, referral, and treatment of oral disease. These programs have been implemented in schools, maternal and child health agencies, public dental health clinics, and other community-based settings.
The Oral Health Center is also responsible for assessment, policy development, and assurance of oral health services. This includes surveillance, strategic planning, and using evidence-based research to develop oral health care policies in order to improve access to care and overall health.
From the Desk of Dr. Russell:
Iowans are embracing the importance of good oral health! We are seeing a number of exciting oral health activities across the state with the implementation of I-Smile™. Primary care and oral health providers are learning and sharing new methods to detect dental disease risks.
New policies have been created to protect young pre-school and school-age Iowans that include dental screenings, prevention, and awareness. The Oral Health Center, with its mission to protect the oral health of Iowans, is now officially within Iowa Administrative Code as part of the state's public health system.
Much has improved over the past few years; however, there is so much more that needs to be done. We continue to renew ourselves to the challenges of improving oral health and will continue to strive toward the ultimate goal that all Iowans will have the knowledge and tools to assure optimal oral health.
OHDS Bureau Programs
