Maryland Oral Health Plan, 2026-2030
The Maryland Oral Health Plan (MOHP) is the state’s strategic roadmap for improving oral health, advancing health equity and guiding coordinated efforts across Maryland’s oral health community. It is developed by the Maryland Dental Action Coalition (MDAC) in partnership with state, regional and local stakeholders. The MOHP sets forth goals, strategies and objectives to ensure Marylanders have access to affordable, high-quality oral health care. The plan focuses on three core priorities: Access to Care, Oral Disease and Injury Prevention and Oral Health Literacy and Education.
The 2026-2030 MOHP is the third statewide oral health plan developed in partnership with the Maryland Department of Health/Office of Oral Health, following the 2011 and 2018 versions. Each plan builds upon achievements from the previous one, addressing emerging challenges and leveraging opportunities to strengthen oral health for all.
The MOHP is a broad roadmap, rather than a prescriptive list of actions. This encourages innovative implementation strategies to meet the needs of Maryland’s diverse regions and communities.
Summary of Findings
Maryland benefits from strong leadership, committed partnerships and innovative policy initiatives that continue to drive statewide advancements in oral health. Significant progress has been made since 2018, including reestablishment of comprehensive adult dental coverage under Medicaid, two consecutive years dental reimbursement rate increases in the state budget, and broader practice authority for dental hygienists. Maryland has made incremental progress in integrating oral health care and medical care. A range of initiatives have been implemented to educate dental and medical care clinicians and pilot the integration of oral health into medical care settings and vice versa, which have laid the groundwork for broader system changes. Despite these advances, workforce shortages, geographic and racial disparities and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to limit access — especially in rural areas and Baltimore City. Rising rates of tooth decay among children highlight the need for renewed focus and collaboration.
Want to get involved in improving oral health in Maryland?
Contact MDAC at info@mdac.us to join in the work to implement the Maryland Oral Health Plan.
