Why Children's Oral Health?

Oral Health Matters

Oral health is an essential component of overall health throughout life.  Good oral health means being free of tooth decay, gum diseases, chronic oral pain, oral cancer and other conditions that affect the mouth and throat.  
Oral health affects children’s nutritional intake, self-esteem, and their ability to succeed in school.

 Oral Health Disparities Exist

In San Francisco, the latest Kindergarten dental screening data shows that 35% of Asian children, 37% of African American children, and 38% of Latino kindergartners have experienced caries compared to 12% of white kindergartners. 

Prevention Works

Children's dental caries can be prevented.  Evidence based prevention strategies include:  community water fluoridation, school-based sealant programs, fluoride varnish application, early and routine dental care, proper oral hygiene practices and limiting sugary food and beverages intake.

In California, 54% of kindergartners, and 70% or third graders have experienced dental caries, with nearly one-third of children living with untreated tooth decay

Status of Oral Health in California 2017 

California children are estimated to miss 874,000 days of school each year due to dental problems

California Oral Health Plan 2018-2028

There is the need for population-based strategies to create supportive physical and social environment for adopting and maintaining good oral health for children and families

San Francisco Children's Oral Health Strategic Plan 2014-2020

​San Francisco Dental Transformation Initiative
Local Dental Pilot Project
30 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 210
​San Francisco, CA 94102