Improving access to oral health care for pregnant women. A private practice model.

This article describes a project in which the prenatal oral health recommendations of the New York State Department of Health are implemented. It explores how providing access to oral care to an underserved population of pregnant women can be achieved in a private practice setting. Implementation of this program requires close cooperation and communication between oral care and prenatal care providers. This is accomplished through education, conferences and written communication. A protocol for this treatment is outlined. Challenges and barriers to providing oral care to this target population in a private practice setting, including reimbursement issues, are discussed.