Education is at the heart of the ABCD program. Training for both the dental health community and the target population provides the foundation for long term changes in the oral health of the community.

• Dentists receive continuing education in early pediatric dental techniques and are certified by University of Washington Pediatric Dentistry staff. This qualifies them to receive enhanced reimbursement for selected Medicaid preventive service codes for enrolled children.
  
  
• Dental front office staff receives training in communication and culturally appropriate follow up with the client families.
  
  
• Enrolled families are coached in the need for early and preventive dental care, and in appropriate behavior at the dental office, including the need to keep appointments. The resulting no-show rate is significantly lower than in normal practices.
  
  
• Participating private practices accept enrolled clients (including existing clients) at a caseload level determined by each practice. Clients have freedom of choice in selecting a dental provider.

This education and support encourages dentists in private practice to increase their commitment to expanding dental access in the community. The emphasis on non-traumatic techniques and oral health education encourages families to seek and accept regular dental care.

As a result, there can be a significant increase in both access rates and community oral health.