Clinical Associate Professor at Idaho State University, School of Nursing

Dr. Melody Weaver is an Associate Clinical Professor in the School of Nursing at Idaho State University, where she teaches in the Doctor of Nursing Practice, Nurse Practitioner track. With over 40 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, she holds a BSN and MSN from the University of Texas at Arlington and a PhD from the University of Utah. She also completed a palliative care program through California State University San Marcos.

While practicing in rural northern California, Dr. Weaver developed an Early Childhood Caries (ECC) Prevention Program in a medically underserved area with limited access to dental services. Collaborating with two dental hygienists and a Medicaid-accepting dentist located an hour away, she implemented quarterly in-clinic fluoride varnish appointments and parent education. The program focused on early intervention—beginning with prenatal counseling and continuing with oral health visits for infants as young as six months.

Over three years, the initiative reduced ECC incidence in kindergarten-aged children by 50%. It was supported by grants from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the Lassen County Board of Commissioners, and local leadership.

At each visit, children received an oral exam, chlorhexidine cleaning, and fluoride varnish application, while families were provided with oral hygiene supplies and education. The program’s success was reflected not only in clinical outcomes but in children’s enthusiasm—many eagerly volunteered for their turn in the exam room. One memorable case involved a young girl whose health and academic performance significantly improved after receiving comprehensive dental care under anesthesia.

Dr. Weaver’s work exemplifies the critical role that medical providers can play in addressing oral health disparities through preventive care and community partnership.