Widen dental access

In response to the editorial “Don’t neglect dental coverage proposal”: People of all ages need regular dental care so they can enjoy a lifetime of good health. But contrary to your recent editorial, we still have a long way to go before all kids are free of unnecessary suffering.

In my work to provide free or low-cost services to people in need, I regularly encounter children who have gone far too long without a dental professional’s care. Kids miss school because of a toothache that needs to be treated now — or it only gets worse, causing more missed days.

Spokane County has one of the state’s highest rates of children getting oral health care. Still, each year, 44 percent of local kids get none. Part of the problem is a shortage of providers: 34 of the state’s 39 counties don’t have enough dentists, hygienists or other oral health professionals to meet local needs.

As it works to expand access to dental care in other ways, the state Legislature can also authorize more providers to satisfy unmet demand. Dental therapists extend care to people who need it, including adults and children with Apple Health coverage. Regular dental care ought to be within reach of everyone.

Paula Williams

Spokane