The New Jersey Smiles quality improvement framework outlined in this project change package describes interventions designed to increase the number of children ages 0-5 who receive an annual dental visit and ensure those at highest risk have access to a dental home.

Improvement activities are directed at the child and their family, as well as, community dental and medical providers. Community stakeholders, in particular Early Head Start/Head Start staff, are active partners in this initiative. This two-part tool uses a measurement strategy that examines improved access to dental services, reduction of dental care provided in acute care settings, and the increased use of preventive dental services among young children. Organizations can use this tool to guide the development of health plan and provider quality initiatives to improve oral health care for preschoolers.