From California School-Based Health Alliance:
California’s Commitment to Advancing Oral Health Equity for Children and Youth
Apr 21, 2026 01:00 PM PST
Join this presentation by Dr. Shakalpi Pendurkar, the State Dental Director, who will describe the oral health status of California’s children and youth and explain why this information is important for educators. Participants will learn about public health strategies that address the social determinants of health and how these strategies align with the Office of Oral Health’s vision of achieving oral health equity and wellbeing for all Californians. Dr. Pendurkar will also discuss how the California Oral Health Plan provides a statewide strategic framework for public health initiatives, supporting the Office of Oral Health’s mission to improve oral health through evidence‑based or evidence‑informed prevention, education, and community‑driven efforts.
Presenter: Shakalpi Pendurkar, DDS, MPH, State Dental Director of California, California Department of Public Health
