The purpose of the dental screening requirement is to improve the oral health of Iowa's children. Dental screenings will facilitate early detection and referral for treatment of dental disease; reduce the incidence, impact, and cost of dental disease; inform parents and guardians of their children's dental problems; encourage the establishment of effective oral health practices early in life; promote the importance of oral health as an integral component of preparation for school and learning; and contribute to statewide surveillance of oral health. These rules will enhance the I-Smile dental home concepts of prevention, education, care coordination, and treatment to provide a critical step in closing the gap in access to dental care for underserved children.
Iowa Admin. Code r. 641-51.1