(a) The implementation of any and all program activities is subject to the availability of funds. The program identifies populations based on socioeconomic need, limited access to dental providers, and other risk factors.
(b) Program conducts oral health surveillance activities based on priorities determined by the program and may include:
  (1) collecting data through visual, open-mouth screening, survey, or other means as defined in policy; and
  (2) preparing statistical or other public health reports based on surveillance data.
(c) Oral disease prevention activities may include open-mouth screening, community water fluoridation, fluoride varnish applications, silver diamine fluoride applications, or dental sealants.
(d) Oral health promotion and education topics may include the improvement of home care, the importance of dental check-ups, the relationship between oral health and general health, the prevention and detection of oral cancer, and the improvement of perinatal oral health. Activities may include:
  (1) public health education to promote the prevention of oral disease;
  (2) initiation and expansion of preschool, school, and adult education programs;
  (3) organization of continuing health education for health providers; and
  (4) preventive health education information for the public.
(e) Oral health subject matter expertise includes providing information and guidance to the department and other agencies and organizations regarding oral health and oral disease prevention. Activities may include:
  (1) assisting in the development of oral health training materials;
  (2) providing feedback on policies or programs with an oral health component; and
  (3) ensuring public health policies and procedures include oral health components.
(f) Program shall work to facilitate access to oral health services by informing the public of available services and promoting better distribution of dentists and other oral health professionals throughout the State of Texas.
(g) Program activities must adhere to the Dental Practice Act, Texas Occupations Code, Chapters 251 - Chapter 267.
(h) The department may implement activities through contracts or interagency agreements with entities that may include academic institutions, professional associations, or nonprofit organizations.

Source Note: The provisions of this §49.6 adopted to be effective June 29, 2020, 45 TexReg 4339