摘要：Objectives . We estimated the effects of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) on dental services use by Medicaid children in North Carolina. Methods . We used linked Medicaid claims and enrollment files, WIC files, and the area resource file to compare dental services use for children enrolled in WIC with those not enrolled. We used multivariate models that controlled for child clustering and employed 2-step methodology to control for selection bias. Results . Children who participated in WIC had an increased probability of having a dental visit, were more likely to use preventive and restorative services, and were less likely to use emergency services. Conclusions . Children’s WIC participation improved access to dental care services that should lead to improved oral health. Dental disease and access to dental care are major public health problems for young low-income children living in the United States. This national dilemma has recently come under close scrutiny by policymakers, health care providers, and researchers. 1, 2 Because of frequent interactions with low-income children and their families, several public health programs can help alleviate dental problems and improve access to dental care. An example of such a program is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). WIC is administered by the Food and Nutrition Services of the US Department of Agriculture and serves more than 7.4 million individuals. 3 Over one third of infants born in the United States are enrolled in the WIC program. It is often the first contact with the health care system for many poor women and children. The primary goal of WIC is to “improve the health of women and children by providing nutritious foods, nutrition education and good health care during pregnancy, the postpartum period, infancy and early childhood.” 4(p391) To achieve its goal, WIC agencies work to improve the linkage between clients and health care providers, including dentists, through referrals and networking. 5
