Understanding the Problem

 

Despite the fact that tooth decay is preventable, it is the most common chronic, infectious disease afflicting children in the nation. The most vulnerable children are at greatest risk.  Low-income children, in particular, are twice as likely to have decay, have twice as many cavities, but are only half as likely to receive dental care as children in higher income families.

The public health problem of dental disease is winnable, and a focus on early intervention is increasingly seen as the best chance for success.  This will require an understanding of current barriers and opportunities on:

  1. Coverage & Financing
  2. Prevention
  3. Safety net (facilities, providers, and payment program to support dental care for underserved populations)
  4. Surveillance
  5. Workforce

This section addresses oral health from a national perspective.  Scroll through the five categories to learn how policies and systems affect the oral health status of children in the nation.