| (a) The implementation of any and all program activities
is subject to the availability of funds. The program identifies populations
based on socioeconomic need, limited access to dental providers, and
other risk factors.
(b) Program conducts oral health surveillance activities
based on priorities determined by the program and may include:
(1) collecting data through visual, open-mouth screening,
survey, or other means as defined in policy; and
(2) preparing statistical or other public health reports
based on surveillance data.
(c) Oral disease prevention activities may include
open-mouth screening, community water fluoridation, fluoride varnish
applications, silver diamine fluoride applications, or dental sealants.
(d) Oral health promotion and education topics may
include the improvement of home care, the importance of dental check-ups,
the relationship between oral health and general health, the prevention
and detection of oral cancer, and the improvement of perinatal oral
health. Activities may include:
(1) public health education to promote the prevention
of oral disease;
(2) initiation and expansion of preschool, school,
and adult education programs;
(3) organization of continuing health education for
health providers; and
(4) preventive health education information for the
public.
(e) Oral health subject matter expertise includes providing
information and guidance to the department and other agencies and
organizations regarding oral health and oral disease prevention. Activities
may include:
(1) assisting in the development of oral health training
materials;
(2) providing feedback on policies or programs with
an oral health component; and
(3) ensuring public health policies and procedures
include oral health components.
(f) Program shall work to facilitate access to oral
health services by informing the public of available services and
promoting better distribution of dentists and other oral health professionals
throughout the State of Texas.
(g) Program activities must adhere to the Dental Practice
Act, Texas Occupations Code, Chapters 251 - Chapter 267.
(h) The department may implement activities through
contracts or interagency agreements with entities that may include
academic institutions, professional associations, or nonprofit organizations.
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