Effects of WIC participation on children's use of oral health services.

Abstract

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. 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. 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. Children's WIC participation improved access to dental care services that should lead to improved oral health.