Oral Health Resources - Children's Oral Health Overview

Oral Health Resources - Children's Oral Health Overview
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Division of Oral Health
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
4770 Buford Highway, NE, MS F-10
Atlanta, GA 30341-3717
(770) 488-6054
OralHealth@cdc.gov

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic infectious diseases among U.S. children. This preventable health problem begins early: 28 percent of children aged 2Ò5 years have already had decay in their primary (baby) teeth. By the age of 11, approximately half of children have experienced decay, and by the age of 19, tooth decay in the permanent teeth affects two-thirds (68 percent) of adolescents. Low-income children have twice as much untreated decay as children in families with higher incomes. This may result in pain, dysfunction, underweight, and poor appearanceÛproblems that can greatly reduce a child's capacity to succeed in the educational environment.

More Information on Children's Oral Health

FAQs on Dental Sealants
Journal Articles
Fact Sheets and FAQs