Dentists Are Well Positioned to Administer COVID-19 Booster Shots

National CareQuest Institute survey shows half of dentists offering or would offer COVID-19 vaccines

Boston, MA – Oral health providers across the country stand poised to be a critical access point for care as the Biden administration announced yesterday the US will begin offering COVID-19 booster shots in September. A recently released report by CareQuest Institute for Oral Health makes clear that including dentists could significantly boost the number of providers administering boosters, increasing the speed and reach of the vaccination effort.

According to the report, drawn from a survey of nearly 400 oral health providers across the country, 49% of providers indicated they either already administer the COVID-19 vaccine or are interested in doing so.

Annually, more than 19 million people visit the dentist but not a primary care physician or other medical professional. This means many dental professionals, especially those operating in community health care settings such as Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), are well positioned to serve as an important public health access point for COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters.

According to the report, dental providers in public health settings, like FQHCs, are 10 times more likely to offer COVID-19 vaccines than providers in private practice. As racial and ethnic disparities persist in vaccination rates among Black and Latino communities, increasing access points to the vaccine and boosters in public health settings is one critical way to reduce existing gaps.

The following is a statement from Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, president and CEO of CareQuest Institute for Oral Health:

“If we want to ensure equitable and comprehensive distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shots, oral health professionals must be part of the solution. Dentists and hygienists have the trust of their patients and the training and capability to administer vaccines safely. According to our survey, dentists stand ready and willing to help, and we encourage states to include them as an essential part of their ongoing vaccination programs.”

Direct Media Inquiries to: 
Kristin LaRoche 
klaroche@carequest.org 
857-275-5038

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About CareQuest Institute for Oral Health
CareQuest Institute for Oral Health is a national nonprofit championing a more equitable future where every person can reach their full potential through excellent health. We do this through our work in grantmaking, research, health improvement programs, policy and advocacy, and education as well as our leadership in dental benefits, care delivery, and innovation advancements. We collaborate with thought leaders, health care providers, patients, and local, state, and federal stakeholders, to accelerate oral health care transformation and create a system designed for everyone.