Evaluating the Impact of School-Based Dental Programs on Student Absenteeism

In 2024, we awarded The Center for Oral Health a $25,000 grant to support a pivotal study titled “The Impact of School-Based Dental Programs on School Absenteeism”. This research, powered by our Disabled Community Access Fund, will evaluate how their Early Smiles Sacramento program—established in 2016—affects student attendance by providing preventive dental care directly in schools.

Serving over 27,000 children annually across 17 school districts, Early Smiles Sacramento delivers oral health education, screenings, fluoride treatments, and care coordination services, including translation and transportation support. By reducing dental-related absences, the program not only improves student well-being but also reduces costs for families and school systems. This study aims to highlight the program’s effectiveness in improving educational outcomes and inform policy decisions that expand access to care. We expect the results from this study to be ready this summer.