The N.C. Oral Health Section works to prevent dental caries by using evidence-based data-driven decision making to advance the oral health, overall health, and well-being of N.C. citizens. Twenty-five field dental hygienists cover the state, offering dental screenings, educational services and programs aimed to maintain oral health. In addition to our oral epidemiology program, we have oral health programs focused on prevention in early childhood, preventive services in school health and are currently developing new programs for vulnerable adult populations.