In a recently released document summarizing the benefits of Health Care Reform for children, the White House listed oral health coverage as a key provision stating that the new law: "Requires coverage of not only basic pediatric services under all new health plans, but also oral and vision needs starting in 2014.  Many health plans do not provide coverage for needed child health services, and 12 percent of children have not had a doctor's visit in the past year."

(click here to read the full summary)

While the document lists numerous provisions in Health Care Reform that will improve the lives of America's children, the mention of dental coverage as a key benefit is evidence that oral health is finally becoming a priority for policymakers at the highest levels.  Furthermore, this small victory underscores the importance of the many organizations and individuals who have worked to raise awareness of the need for improved oral health policy and serves as encouragement to continue to advance the issue of oral health as the implementation of Health Care Reform begins.