About NC Oral Health

The N.C. Oral Health Section (OHS) works to prevent dental issues to advance the oral and overall health of N.C. citizens. Twenty-five field dental hygienists cover the state, offering dental screenings, educational services and programs aimed to maintain oral health. In addition to our oral epidemiology program, we have oral health programs focused on prevention in early childhood, preventive services in school health and are currently developing new programs for vulnerable adult populations.

The OHS provides direct prevention services in school health, including placement of dental sealants and coordinating fluoride mouth rinse programs. In addition to these direct services, the OHS supports community health initiatives by training medical providers in oral health prevention, as well as offering consultation to local agencies supporting dental access and fluoridation.

N.C. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Vision Statement

Advancing innovative solutions that foster independence, improve health and promote well-being for all North Carolinians.

NCDHHS Mission Statement

In collaboration with our partners, DHHS provides essential services to improve the health, safety and well-being of all North Carolinians.

N.C. OHS Focus

To promote conditions in which all North Carolinians can achieve oral health as part of overall health. To work toward eliminating disparities in oral health by using best practices to:

  • Reduce oral diseases through preventive services
  • Monitor the public's oral health
  • Promote access to dental care
  • Provide professional education

N.C. OHS Motto

Oral health for everybody!

People We Serve

  • Children
  • Vulnerable adults
  • Caregivers
  • Healthcare providers

We work toward this focus in partnership with:

  • Healthcare professionals and other professional organizations
  • Organizations that support improved health in their communities
  • Dental training institutions
  • Medical training institutions

*The Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors (ASTDD) in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) Division of Oral Health defines a Best Practice Approach as a public health strategy that is supported by evidence for its impact and effectiveness. Evidence includes research, expert opinion, field lessons and theoretical rationale.