USA - State cuts hit dental help for poor

State cuts hit dental help for poor
By Linh Tat
The Argus
..............In 2007, 2,955 Alameda County residents sought emergency treatment for dental problems that could have been prevented, according to the California Health Care Foundation.
Dentist Mostafa Barakzoy, who treats clients referred by Tri-City Health Center, said his staff will have to turn away 25 percent to 30 percent of the patients they normally see because they no longer are covered under Medi-Cal.
"We knew this was coming for months, but when it hits you, it's very hard," he said.
Randall worries about her loss of dental coverage, for she knows that untreated problems can lead to more serious health issues. The Surgeon General has linked oral diseases to ear and sinus infections, heart and lung diseases and weakened immune systems.
"I'm concerned (oral diseases) will start affecting other parts of my body if I can't get to the doctor," said Randall, who also fears losing her other medical benefits in the future.
"I'm pretty screwed."

Alameda County, California, has been fluoridated since the 1970's:NYSCOF