Consistent with Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) guidance and Rhode Island’s periodicity schedule, supporting transitions to adult dental care and closing gaps in care remains a longstanding priority for the RIte Smiles dental program.
A well‑supported transition can:
- Promote continuity of care, reducing gaps in preventive and restorative services
- Increase accountability by engaging young adults directly in their treatment planning
- Create comfort, trust and ease the anxiety that sometimes accompanies shifting to an adult provider
You can help make transitions in your practice successful by:
- Offering introductions: Whether within a multi‑provider office or when referring externally, warm handoffs build confidence for families
- Empowering the patient: Encourage them to speak for themselves during visits, review treatment notes and engage directly with the provider
Education topics for teens and young adults
If your practice cares for older teens or young adults, consider educating them on the following topics:
- Vaping and smoking: Impact on periodontal health and long‑term oral disease risks
- Oral piercings: Infection risks, tooth chipping, gum recession and trauma
- Nutrition: Added sugars, sports drinks, snacking habits and their impact on oral health
- HPV vaccination counseling: Discussing HPV cancer risk and the oral health relevance of completing the vaccine series