Oral Health Improving for Most Americans, But Tooth Decay Among Preschool Children on the Rise

Americans of all ages continue to experience improvements in their oral health. However, tooth decay in primary (baby) teeth increased among children aged 2 to 5 years, according to a report released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Based on data from CDC's National Center for Health Statistics, the report, "Trends in Oral Health Status-United States, 1988-1994 and 1999-2004," represents the most comprehensive assessment of oral health data available for the U.S. population to date.

Tooth decay in primary (baby) teeth of children aged 2 to 5 years increased from 24 percent to 28 percent between 1988-1994 and 1999-2004.

The report noted significant improvements in several areas. The prevalence of tooth decay in permanent teeth decreased for children, teens and adults. And more than one-third (38 percent) of children and teens aged 12 to 19 years had dental sealants, a plastic coating applied to teeth that protects against decay.

The report noted several racial/ethnic disparities. Thirty-one percent of Mexican American children aged 6 to 11 years had experienced decay in their permanent teeth, compared to 19 percent of non-Hispanic white children.

"This report shows that while we are continuing to make strides in prevention of tooth decay, this disease clearly remains a problem for some racial and ethnic groups, many of whom have more treated and untreated tooth decay compared to other groups," said Dr. Bruce A. Dye, a dentist and the report's lead author.

Visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov to read the rest of this article.

Contact a local dentist to learn more about how to maintain your oral heath!