Active Program
Project SBDSP
School-Based Dental Sealant Program
Delivering evidence-based sealant and preventive programs directly in Title I schools across San Diego County, targeting first and second permanent molars in high-risk pediatric populations.
Section 01
The Need
Tooth decay remains the most common chronic disease among children in the United States, affecting approximately 1 in 5 children aged 5–11. Despite being almost entirely preventable, dental caries continues to disproportionately impact children in low-income communities.
1 in 5
children aged 5-11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth
Source: CDC
80%
of cavities in back teeth (molars) can be prevented by sealants for at least 2 years
Source: CDC
3x
more cavities occur in children from low-income families without sealants
Source: CDC
60%
of children from low-income families are less likely to receive sealants than higher-income peers
Source: CDC / CDPH
Key References: CDC School Sealant Program Fact Sheets; California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Oral Health Program; Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors (ASTDD) Best Practice Approach for School-Based Sealant Programs.
Learn more about the public health evidence supporting school-based sealant programs in our research brief.
Section 02
Why School-Based Sealant Programs Work
School-based sealant programs are recognized by the CDC's Community Guide as an evidence-based strategy for preventing dental caries among children. These programs deliver preventive services directly in the school setting, eliminating transportation, scheduling, and cost barriers that prevent families from accessing traditional dental offices.
CDC modeling data estimates that school sealant programs prevent approximately 3 cavities per child over a 4-year period. Long-term analyses demonstrate significant reductions in Medicaid spending for restorative and emergency dental care.
Recognized as evidence-based by the CDC Community Guide
Prevent approximately 3 cavities per child over 4 years
Reduce long-term Medicaid spending on restorative care
Eliminate access barriers for underserved families
Reach children who may not otherwise receive dental care
Cost-effective public health investment per dollar spent
Sources: The Community Guide (communitypreventiveservices.org), CDC, ASTDD
Section 03
Our Model in Practice
Project SBDSP follows a standardized implementation protocol designed for consistency, compliance, and measurable outcomes.
01
Site Assessment
Evaluation of school demographics, health data, and infrastructure to determine program eligibility and logistics.
02
Consent Process
Distribution and collection of informed consent forms in compliance with state and local requirements.
03
Education Module Delivery
Age-appropriate oral health education delivered to students prior to clinical services.
04
Sealant Placement
Professional application of dental sealants on eligible first and second permanent molars by licensed providers.
05
Fluoride Varnish Application
Supplemental fluoride varnish applied to strengthen enamel and provide additional caries protection.
06
Referral & Data Tracking
Referral pathways for children needing restorative care, with standardized data collection for outcome reporting.
Section 04
Public Health Impact
Reduced ER Utilization
Preventive sealant programs reduce dental-related emergency department visits. CDC data shows that billions are spent annually on preventable dental ER visits nationwide.
Source: CDC
Improved School Attendance
Children with untreated dental disease miss significantly more school days. Preventive care reduces pain-related absences and supports academic performance.
Source: NIDCR, CDC
Long-Term Cost Savings
Each dollar invested in school sealant programs saves multiple dollars in future restorative care, Medicaid claims, and emergency treatment costs.
Source: The Community Guide, CDC
Section 05
Scaling the Model
Project SBDSP is designed for scalable replication across school districts. Our framework leverages the RDHAP licensure model, community partnerships, and mobile equipment infrastructure to expand into new communities as funding and partnerships allow.
- RDHAP-led delivery enables care without on-site dentist supervision
- Community partnerships with school districts and health departments
- Portable/mobile equipment model reduces facility overhead
- Preventive billing pathways support financial sustainability
- Standardized protocols enable rapid replication in new sites
Partner with Project SBDSP
School districts, health departments, and funders are invited to connect.