The Rhode Island House of Representatives has introduced a resolution recognizing February 2026 as "National Children's Dental Health Month." This initiative aims to highlight the importance of oral health as a critical component of overall well-being, particularly for children. The resolution emphasizes the need for early dental visits, as childhood dental caries remains a prevalent yet preventable disease. It also addresses the barriers to oral health equity that limit access to preventive services and stresses the importance of collaboration between primary care providers and dental professionals to reduce emergency dental visits and improve overall care.

Furthermore, the resolution acknowledges the current shortage of dental professionals and the need for strategic efforts to diversify the workforce. It outlines the measures already taken by the State of Rhode Island to enhance access to dental care, such as the use of Public Health Dental Hygienists and mobile dental clinics. The resolution encourages all residents to support initiatives that promote oral health education and preventive care, ensuring that every child can develop healthy habits for a lifetime. A certified copy of the resolution will be sent to the Rhode Island Dental Association to further promote these efforts.

Introduced by Representatives Kislak, Shekarchi, Blazejewski, Chippendale, and Morales on February 10, the resolution has been read and passed in the House.