Are minority children getting their fair share of dental services?

A review is provided of available national survey data on oral health of minority and nonminority children, and their use of dental services. Minority children continued to have greater need of dental care but use fewer dental health services, measured by a variety of methods, including the frequency and number of visits, and the types of services provided, such as preventive or restorative services. A smaller percentage of minority children had dental insurance coverage. Findings must continually be presented to legislators and finding agencies.