​The Ohio Department of Health (ODH), through its Bureau of Maternal, Child and Family Health's Oral Health Program, has historically offered grant funds to support the Safety Net Dental Care Program II (SNDC II). This initiative aims to enhance access to dental care for underserved populations across Ohio, particularly targeting individuals with low incomes, those uninsured for dental care, and communities facing significant oral health disparities.​

The primary objective of the SNDC II program is to provide financial assistance to safety net dental clinics. These clinics deliver comprehensive oral health services, including preventive, restorative, and emergency dental care, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder individuals from receiving necessary dental treatments. The program emphasizes the importance of oral health as a critical component of overall health and well-being.​

Funding from the SNDC II program is allocated to support various operational aspects of dental clinics. This includes covering costs related to dental supplies, equipment, personnel salaries, and other essential expenses that facilitate the delivery of dental services to underserved communities. The program underscores the significance of maintaining high-quality care standards while expanding service accessibility.​

Eligibility for the SNDC II grants typically extends to public agencies, including local health departments, public hospitals, and private nonprofit organizations operating safety net dental clinics. These entities must demonstrate a commitment to serving populations with limited access to dental care and the capacity to deliver comprehensive dental services. Applicants are required to provide detailed information about their clinic operations, target populations, and strategies for addressing oral health disparities.​
ohiodnr.gov

Application requirements for the SNDC II program generally include the submission of a comprehensive proposal outlining the clinic's mission, services provided, target demographics, and a detailed budget plan. Applicants must also furnish copies of current licenses or certifications for dental clinic staff, which can be verified through Ohio’s online e-License system. Additionally, adherence to specified deadlines for proposal submission is crucial for consideration.​
odh.ohio.gov

The evaluation of applications is based on several criteria, including the demonstrated need for dental services in the target community, the clinic's capacity to deliver comprehensive dental care, the effectiveness of proposed strategies to reach underserved populations, and the sustainability of the clinic's operations beyond the grant period. Successful applicants are those that present clear, feasible plans to address oral health disparities and exhibit the potential for long-term impact.