Maryland Oral Health Summit Background Papers & Commentaries

Introduction to Special Issue Dedication Preface - Fulfilling the Legacy of a 12-year-old Boy Breaking the Cycle in Maryland: Oral Health Policy Change in the Face of Tragedy Background Paper Commentary Oral Health Trends in Maryland Background Paper Commentary Oral Health Literacy: A Pathway for Reducing Oral Health Disparities in Maryland Background Paper Commentary Outcomes of Oral Cancer Early Detection and Prevention Statewide Model in Maryland Background Paper Commentary State Oral Health Infrastructure and Capacity: Lessons Learned from Other States Background Paper Commentary Potential to Improve Oral Health Care Through Evidence Protocols, and Payment Models Background Paper Commentary Federal Supports for State Oral Health Plans Background Paper Commentary Pathways to Common Ground and Action Background Paper Commentary

Maryland Oral Health Summit: Proceedings

MarylandOralHealthSummit

Following news of the death in 2007 of a 12-year-old Maryland boy, Deamonte Driver, from an untreated dental infection that had spread to his brain and shocked the nation, the state of Maryland created the Maryland Dental Action Coalition and in 2011, with the Santa Fe Group convened the Maryland Oral Health Summit in October 2011. These two organizations were joined by a diverse gathering of public and private health groups and experts representing state, local, and federal programs and academia. It was designed to build on experiences within and beyond the state and to develop strategies toward maximizing the oral health of all individuals, especially vulnerable populations. The state’s response and continued vigilance have been watched closely by other states for lessons learned and paths to take in search of optimal health outcomes.