Doctors are drawing attention to what they consider the most prevalent chronic childhood disease in the U.S. – tooth decay. According to the Centers for Disease Control, five times more children suffer from cavities than asthma.
Dr. Scott Cashion, the president of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, emphasized the impact of this issue, noting that over 34 million school hours are missed annually due to tooth problems. The AAPD’s findings reveal that more than half of elementary school children have cavities.
Cashion stressed the importance of regular dental check-ups, likening them to visits to the paediatrician or family doctor. Preventing children from experiencing dental pain or encountering tooth problems is a priority.
In recognition of National Children’s Dental Health Month in February, the AAPD aims to raise awareness and funds to assist underserved communities. Over the past decade, the AAPD Foundation has provided access-to-care grants for over 800,000 children, amounting to around $10 million. These grants support nonprofit clinics, dental schools, and dentist-led organizations.
The foundation emphasizes the significance of early and regular dental care for children. Cashion noted that children receiving consistent care are less likely to face dental issues as they grow older.
Untreated cavities in children can increase vulnerability to infections and lead to serious health complications. Cashion emphasized the importance of getting children to the dentist at an early age, ideally by the age of one or when their first tooth emerges.
To support the cause, individuals can contribute to the “Sponsor a Smile” initiative online. The AAPD provides information on finding healthcare for children, including locating pediatric dentists in the area or identifying clinics that have benefited from the foundation’s access-to-care grants across the nation.
