MCDPH PRVENTIVE DENTAL SERVICES (002).PDF

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SECTION Ill 
WORK STATEMENT 
Background 
Tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic disease currently affecting children, accounting for 
approximately 51 million school hours lost each year in the United States. Tooth decay and 
resultant pain can have an adverse effect on overall health, good nutrition, self-esteem, and ability 
to learn. Among the 43 states that collect data in the same way, Arizona ranks #3 in the highest 
percentage (over 40%) of third-grade children with untreated tooth decay. Conversely, the state 
of Washington has the lowest percentage of children with untreated tooth decay (less than 15%) 
among the Western states. 
The Maricopa County Department of Public Health-Office of Oral Health (MCDPH-OOH) requests 
that the City of Phoenix join MCDPH-OOH in partnership to prevent tooth decay and improve the 
health of their clients. 
Fluoride varnish and silver diamine fluoride applications are non-invasive and pain-free. These 
procedures are evidence-based and have been proven safe and effective in the reduction of tooth 
decay. 
This Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) will bring MCDPH-OOH to the City of Phoenix Head 
Start locations. A licensed dental hygienist will provide dental screenings, fluoride varnish, and 
silver diamine fluoride applications to all (insured and uninsured) eligible children 3-5 years of 
age. The program will also provide written take-home findings and a list of low-cost dental clinics 
to each child screened. These preventive services are provided at no cost to the City or the child. 
1.
PURPOSE
The purpose of this IGA is to develop a framework of cooperation between MCDPH and
City to provide fluoride varnish and silver diamine applications to eligible children for the
prevention of tooth decay.
2.
STATEMENT OF MUTUAL BENEFIT AND INTERESTS
The mutual benefit for both parties is the prevention of tooth decay for children without
private dental insurance.
3.
MCDPH SHALL:
A.
Provide registered dental hygienists and dental assistants to conduct basic dental
screenings to children aged 3 through 5 and fluoride varnish and/or silver diamine
fluoride applications.
B.
Check State Board of Dental Examiners licensing records on licensed MCDPH
dental providers; conduct background checks of all dental providers.
C.
Require all staff to have a current fingerprint clearance card on file with the program.
D.
Provide adequate staffing for shifts assigned to Head Start locations.
E.
Bring all necessary dental supplies needed to conduct the dental screening activities
while on site.
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