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Join Native News Online Publisher Levi Rickert and health reporter Jenna Kunze  on Friday, Feb. 17 at noon EST as they interview Dr. Jessica A. Rickert, the first-ever Native American female dentist. 

February is National Children's Dental Health Month. This week's episode is part of the Native News Health Desk reporting initiative to cover health care in Indian Country. 

Unfortunately, preschool-aged Native American children had four times more cases of untreated tooth decay than white children—43 percent compared with 11 percent, according to a Pew study.

Dr. Rickert will discuss the need for early oral health care for Native American children on and off reservations. 

When she graduated from the University of Michigan’s School of Dentistry in 1975, Dr. Rickert became the first female Native American dentist and the second Native American dentist.

To watch this episode, tune into the live stream on Friday, Feb. 10 at Noon Eastern Time. on the Native News Online Facebook, Twitter, or Youtube social media accounts, and subscribe to our channel.

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Help us defend tribal sovereignty. 

At Native News Online, our mission is rooted in telling the stories that strengthen sovereignty and uplift Indigenous voices — not just at year’s end, but every single day.

Because of your generosity last year, we were able to keep our reporters on the ground in tribal communities, at national gatherings and in the halls of Congress — covering the issues that matter most to Indian Country: sovereignty, culture, education, health and economic opportunity.

That support sustained us through a tough year in 2025. Now, as we look to the year ahead, we need your help right now to ensure warrior journalism remains strong — reporting that defends tribal sovereignty, amplifies Native truth, and holds power accountable.

Levi headshotThe stakes couldn't be higher. Your support keeps Native voices heard, Native stories told and Native sovereignty defended.

Stand with Warrior Journalism today.

Levi Rickert (Potawatomi), Editor & Publisher

 
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Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at [email protected].