Federal Advocacy
Working Together for Healthier Smiles
The RPC works closely with the AAPD Advocacy team to engage and collaborate with federal agencies on policies that improve children’s access to high-quality oral health care and support pediatric dentists serving children and families.
This page highlights federal agencies involved in children’s oral health and provides AAPD updates related to each agency. When available, AAPD also offers resources to help members and partners participate in federal advocacy.
Federal Agencies
AAPD Responding to Federal Updates
- The Impact of Medicaid Cutbacks on Children’s Oral Health and Pediatric Dentistry Training. Mann, L., Fosse, C., & Meyer, B. (2026). Journal of the California Dental Association, 54(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/19424396.2025.2606536
- Webinar: Tricks, Treats, and Federal Policy Updates: What Pediatric Dentists Need to Know (October 2025)
- Resources for Families Affected by the Government Shutdown (November 2025)
- AAPD affirms support for childhood vaccinations (January 2025)
How can I stay up to date with federal policy impacting children’s oral health?
To stay up to date on federal policy impacting children’s oral health, the RPC recommends signing up for Federal Register alerts. Create an account here and sign up for the relevant agencies you would like to follow (e.g., CMS, HRSA, NIDCR) or topic areas of interest.
Don’t forget to also sign up for the RPC Rundown. This is where we share these updates and seek input from members and partners.