Bridge to Healthy Smiles |

What's New...

Bridge to Healthy Smiles Coalition Continues to Grow.

The BTHS coalition welcomes two new members; Miles of Smiles, Ltd. and Happy Teeth => Happy Kids. Since launching a statewide campaign in 2007 the coalition has garnered the support of twenty-nine member organizations, who collectively represent more than 275,000 oral health care advocates throughout Illinois. Thank you for your continued support!

The Oral Health Care Crisis

Government sponsored dental health care programs have been grossly underfunded for more than three decades. In fact, Illinois has among the lowest funding rates in the country for many dental procedures. The Bridge to Healthy Smiles campaign is led by a diverse coalition of oral health care advocates and community groups committed to bringing dental care to the two million Illinois children and adults who rely on government sponsored health care. Our three point legislative plan offers a long term solution:

Increase funding so more dentists can serve low income Illinois families
Fund the Student Loan Repayment Program and Establish a Dental Tax Deferral Program – Supporting Legislation Passed
Fund 10 dental clinics in 10 underserved counties – Supporting Legislation Passed