#1 Chronic Illness in Children
Tooth decay is the most common chronic illness among school-age children.
4.6 Million Children
One out of every 16 children in the United States–which amounts to 4.6 million–does not receive needed oral health care because the family cannot afford it.
One in Three
About 31% of children have untreated tooth decay. It is almost entirely preventable.
One in Four
Medicare beneficiaries have no natural teeth. This can often lead to other health issues, including nutritional deficiencies.
ER Visits Doubled
Emergency room visits for dental health have doubled over the past decade in adults over 65–over 2 million seniors visit the ER for dental problems every year.
Increased Medical Issues
The mouth is the gateway to the body. Poor oral and dental health will increase the risk for diabetes and heart disease.
Individuals with a special need are more likely to have oral health issues due to medical conditions or inability to provide self-oral hygiene.
Children and adults with Down Syndrome are very likely to have early onset periodontal (gum) disease. Proper daily oral hygiene will help to prevent this.
Individuals with a special need should go to the doctor earlier and more frequently than their peers. However, may factors including fear and no access to care limit dentist visits.
DO YOU SHARE OUR PASSIONS?
Find out how you can help us Keep Arizona Smiling through your time, talent, or treasure. Volunteer or donate today and help provide charitable dental care to those who need it most!