RI H7598

Recognizes February 2026 as "National Children's Dental Health Month" in Rhode Island and encourages residents to support oral health education and preventive care for children

Notes that childhood dental caries (cavities) is the most prevalent chronic yet preventable disease among U.S. children, with nearly 74% of children not receiving a dental visit before their first birthday despite ADA and AAP recommendations

Highlights oral health equity barriers limiting access to preventive services including cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and multilingual educational materials

Acknowledges Rhode Island's efforts to increase dental care access through Public Health Dental Hygienists, Community Health Workers, increased Medicaid reimbursements, mobile dental vans, and school-based clinics via FQHCs

Directs the Secretary of State to transmit a certified copy of the resolution to the Rhode Island Dental Association