Dental Sealant

​The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has a longstanding commitment to promoting oral health among school-aged children through its School-Based Dental Sealant Program. This initiative focuses on preventing tooth decay by applying dental sealants to children's teeth, particularly targeting schools with higher percentages of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals.​ Historically, ODH has released annual solicitations to fund organizations capable of implementing these programs. For instance, the DS22 Dental Sealant Program provided grant funds to support 13-15 school-based dental sealant programs during the period from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022. Similarly, the DS24 Dental Sealant Program Continuation Solicitation was announced on July 18, 2023, for the program period starting January 1, 2024. ​ The program's primary objective is to reduce the incidence of dental caries among children by providing sealants directly in schools, thereby eliminating common barriers to dental care access. Eligible applicants typically include local health departments, educational service centers, and other entities capable of delivering school-based dental services.​ Funding allocations have varied over the years. For example, up to $723,668 from the Title V-Maternal and Child Health Block Grant was available for approximately eleven agencies in the DS25 program, covering the period from January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2025. Award ceilings and floors are generally specified in each solicitation to guide applicants.​ odh.ohio.gov Application timelines are clearly defined in each solicitation. For instance, for the DS24 program, all electronic applications and attachments were due by 4 p.m. on Monday, August 21, 2023. Prospective applicants are advised to adhere strictly to these deadlines to ensure consideration.​ Evaluation criteria typically encompass the applicant's capacity to deliver services, past performance, and the potential impact of the program on the target population. Detailed eligibility criteria and application requirements are outlined in each solicitation to assist applicants in preparing their proposals.​