April 10, 2004

By: Lilian Ross
Website: http://www.teeth-whitening-smiles.com

Smile Survey – Children In Washington Need Access To Dental Care

Dental decay remains a significant public health problem for kids, according to a new study of the oral health status of Washington state’s children. Results reported in Smile Survey 2000 show that rates of tooth decay for Washington’s children have increased since the initial Smile Survey in 1994. Children from low-income families, children of color, and children who do not speak English are more likely to experience dental disease.

In the study released today, the Washington State Department of Health assessed the oral health of more than 3,500 children from targeted risk groups and schools representing the general population. The survey found that one and two year olds studied in Washington state had more dental decay than children in this age group nationwide, and more than a third of low-income preschool children who were studied needed dental treatment.

Oral health is critical to the overall health of our children, said Washington State Health Officer Maxine Hayes, M.D./M.P.H. Untreated tooth decay can lead to poor nutrition and speech problems, and can also distract kids from learning. Dental disease is preventable, and every child should have access to quality dental health care.

Access to affordable dental health care is a serious problem for some families in Washington state. One-fourth of families who want dental care for their children report they are not receiving that care. Even when children have health insurance, they often have trouble finding a dentist to treat them.

This survey shows that oral health problems among our state’s children are getting worse, and the time has come to do something about it, said Dr. Terry Bergeson, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. It’s a simple fact: students can’t concentrate in school when they are in pain. The most effective and least costly way to address dental disease is through prevention and early identification.

Author Notes:

Lilian Ross contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.teeth-whitening-smiles.com.  Everything you need to know to get a whiter, brighter smile!