Research on Messages Supporting Oral Health Advocacy

The Children’s Dental Health Project commissioned focus group research to learn what messages about oral health would most persuade policymakers at the state and local levels to prioritize action on this critical issue. CDHP engaged community leaders to test messages in Texas and Maine, thanks to the generosity of the Dental Trade Alliance Foundation. In Texas, this effort was also supported by the St. David’s Foundation.

For focus groups in local communities in Texas, CDHP partnered with the Texas Interfaith Center for Public Policy. In Maine, the Partnership for Children’s Oral Health joined CDHP in this project.

The reports and resources linked here share lessons from each set of focus groups. They are intended to help advocates be more effective in advancing policies that improve communities' oral health, so kids and families can achieve their dreams without dental disease holding them back.