Public Policy / Advocacy

Working in concert with key organizations and local communities throughout Missouri, the Coalition is pursuing public policy to improve Missouri oral health. MCOH Policy Goals are formed through consensus of the Board.

MCOH Policy Goals (updated 2025)

• Expanding access to comprehensive dental care for all Missouri veterans. 

• Reduction of tobacco use and vaping to improve Missouri oral health.

• Incorporation of oral health care in school-based health care. 

• Expanded coverage of and access to silver diamine fluoride for all Missourians.

• Improvement of MO HealthNet by implementing best practices and system improvements to increase provider participation and MO HealthNet participant usage

• Inclusion of a comprehensive dental benefit in MO HealthNet

• Protection and expansion of public water system fluoridation

• Expansion of access to dental sealants for children without routine dental care

• Inclusion of a comprehensive dental benefit in Medicare

• Implementation of a statewide public awareness campaign about the importance of oral health to overall health

• Strengthening provider networks and expansion of service delivery of dental care for high-risk, vulnerable, MO HealthNet and uninsured populations, including people with disabilities and special health care needs

• Incorporation of oral health in the patient-centered medical home

Previously on the Coalition's Policy Agenda and accomplished – 

*Reinstatement of MO HealthNet dental benefits for adults, including prevention and treatment 
Policy Statement on Reinstatement of MO HealthNet Adult Dental Benefits 

*Reinstatement of the Dental Director position at the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
Dental Director Policy Statement

 *Establishment of an oral health caucus in the Missouri General Assembly.