SPOKANE-- A program that helps kids keep their teeth clean started in Spokane, and is now a national model.
Access to Baby and Child Dentistry helps kids get the dental care they need. The program has already helped tens of thousands of children in the region and has saved money.
Douglas Alermatt of Newman Lake says he would not be able to take his two children to the dentist twice a year if it were not for the ABCD program. He says he would only be able to take his kids in an emergency situation. He says even in that kind of situation, it would be a challenge.
Alermatt’s children now love going to the dentist. Experts say enjoying trips to the dentist is important because it helps kids learn at an early age about the importance of a lifetime of proper dental hygiene.
“I think it’s pretty awesome,” Alermatt said. “I remember as a kid, it was pretty hard going to the dentist because of some of the stuff you had to go through. They actually give you an opportunity to get your kids there now.”
The ABCD program is for children already on Medicaid. It began when dentists noticed many low-income children end up only getting dental care when they have a major problem.
Officials say the program has prevented tooth decay because it has educated parents and children on the importance of dental health.
After it began in Spokane County, ABCD has spread to 39 other counties in Washington and is now a role model for similar programs on a national level.
