ABDPH Dental Public Health case studies
ABDPH Dental Public Health · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The American Board of Dental Public Health (ABDPH) is the certifying board for the dental specialty of Dental Public Health, which is recognized by the American Dental Association. Incorporated in 1950, the board administers a certification process for dental public health specialists and maintains the resulting Diplomate status through annual registration and continuing education. The ABDPH Dental Public Health case studies are 5 cases and about 3,051 words.
1Fluoride Varnish Program in a Rural County
A rural county of 42,000 residents has one dental clinic, which accepts Medicaid but has a 6-month wait for new pediatric patients. A school-based screening of 1,800 second-graders found that 38% had untreated caries, and 61% of those children were uninsured or Medicaid-enrolled.
634 words, about 3 min2Outbreak Investigation at a Long-Term Care Facility
A 120-bed skilled nursing facility reports that 14 residents developed acute gingival bleeding, fever, and oral ulcerations over 9 days. The facility's dental consultant visits monthly.
636 words, about 3 min3Sealant Program Targeting Decision
A school district of 6,500 elementary students asks a health department to place sealants. Screening data show: 22% of children have untreated decay; 48% of first molars are sealed among children whose parents have private insurance, versus 12% among Medicaid-enrolled children.
619 words, about 3 min4Water Fluoridation Referendum
A city of 85,000 has fluoridated its water at 0.7 mg/L since 1972. A citizens' group petitions for a referendum to end fluoridation, citing 'toxicity' and 'individual choice.' The water utility reports that the natural fluoride level of its source water is 0.2 mg/L and that it serves 72,000 residents; 13,000 residents use private wells.
614 words, about 3 min5Workforce Shortage and Scope-of-Practice Decision
A state has a dentist-to-population ratio of 1:3,900 overall, but in its 12 rural counties the ratio is 1:9,800. The Medicaid program covers 28% of children but only 19% of dentists accept Medicaid; those who do report that reimbursement is 55% of usual fees.
548 words, about 3 min