About
Children's
Oral Health
CHILDREN CAN'T BE HEALTHY WITHOUT GOOD ORAL HEALTH
Dental disease has become the most chronic early childhood disease – 5 times more common than asthma. The health of children’s teeth and mouths is as important as any other part of their bodies, and affects how they feel, learn and behave. Kids who suffer from tooth decay and other oral diseases have difficulty eating, speaking and learning. Nationally, it is estimated that kids miss 51 million hours of school due to oral diseases. Further, because dental disease is a bacterial infection, it can leave children vulnerable to other illnesses.
WE KNOW HOW TO PREVENT AND TREAT THIS DISEASE
The good news is that we can ensure children’s oral health through preventive treatments such as dental sealants, fluoride rinses, and fluoridated water. In fact, 90% of dental decay in school-aged children can be prevented.
To maintain good oral health, children need access to preventive measures such as dental sealants (plastic coatings that seal the pits and grooves of molar teeth), fluoride (through oral treatments and water) and regular visits to an oral health professional for exams and cleanings.
The majority of dental disease is preventable, and with access to preventive services and regular oral health exams, we will have healthier, more productive kids.
Click below to hear samples of the Watch Your Mouth Campaign's radio ads, now playing on stations in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.