Why Children's Oral Health?
Oral Health MattersOral 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 ExistIn 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.
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Prevention WorksChildren'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.
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