February 2024
Healthy, Happy Smiles gives us a glimpse into the experiences of parents and caregivers in NorthCarolina as they access oral health care for their children and navigate and reflect on the obstacles in their way. This report includes stories from parents and caregivers across the state collected by members of the Parent Advisory Council, and interview results on the experiences of Medicaid members seeking oral health care for their children. This report allows us the opportunity to listen to parents and families’ visions of accessible, affordable oral health care in North Carolina. It is intended to be a reference for advocates, policymakers, clinicians, funders, and others interested in improving the systems of care that address oral health needs for children.