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Abstract: 

Poor oral health has been linked to not only diabetes, but is considered a risk factor for heart disease by the American Heart Association, has been potentially associated with stroke incidence, and the latest studies may even link poor oral health to Alzheimer’s Disease. Poor oral health and correlating unmet dental needs have also been associated with a disparity in access to care seen in those of lower socioeconomic status. This article examines some of the advantages and disadvantages of an approach to meeting the dental care needs of the incarcerated that is beginning to gain wider acceptance—providing care through the use of mid-level clinicians such as Advanced Dental Hygiene Practitioners (ADHPs) and Advanced Dental Therapists (ADTs)

Keywords: Title 42, U. S. Code, Section 1983; prophylaxis; Advanced Dental Hygiene Practitioner; mid-level practitioner; cost-effectiveness

Affiliations:  1: Federal Bureau of Prisons.