Look Mom, no cavities

Dental disease is the most common disease of childhood and disproportionately affects low-income minority children. Those with cavities in their “baby teeth” are three times more likely to develop cavities in their permanent teeth.

Jacqueline Burgette, a pediatric dentist who earned her doctorate in health policy and management in May 2016, conducted research into this problem for her dissertation. Burgette studied how Early Head Start (EHS), an early education program for children of diverse low-income families, might influence children’s oral health. She found that those enrolled in EHS were more likely to visit the dentist than children who weren’t enrolled. Her findings suggest that EHS’ efforts may be contributing to better oral health for children at high risk for tooth decay.

Burgette’s interest in this research complements her clinical work. “I’ve seen the impact of poor oral health on children and families, especially those who are disadvantaged,” she said. “I treat patients in the clinic, but I also want to see what we can do as a state, a community, a neighborhood, to prevent them from having a difficult time getting care.”

Burgette received a 2016 Graduate Impact Education Impact Award, funded by private gifts, from the Graduate School in recognition for contributions made to the state of North Carolina.

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