Jayanth V. Kumar, DDS, MPH, Named California State Dental Director

​Gov. Jerry Brown today announced that Jayanth V. Kumar, DDS, MPH, will serve as California’s new state dental director. For years, the California Dental Association has advocated for a state dental director — the establishment of this position is a major achievement for the state’s oral health program and access to care planning goals.

“CDA applauds Gov. Brown’s appointment and is looking forward to collaborating with Dr. Kumar, who will bring together an advisory group of stakeholders to help develop plans for improving oral health in California,” said CDA President Walt Weber, DDS. “Under Dr. Kumar’s leadership, New York’s oral health program experienced significant success and is recognized as one of the finest in the nation. We are excited to have his leadership and experience here in California. His excellent grasp of the serious challenges our state faces in reducing barriers to dental care, and his knowledge of effective disease prevention programs and federal funding opportunities, will be a tremendous asset to California.”

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