Oral Health

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 500 million dental visits occur annually in the United States, with an estimated 50 billion dollars currently being spent on dental services.

Yet, many children and adults needlessly suffer from oral diseases that could be prevented. In fact, 30,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral and pharyngeal cancers this year, resulting in more than 8,000 deaths -- many of which could have been prevented.

In addition, close to 20 percent of preschoolers (children ages 4 and 5) have tooth decay -- with 50 percent developing tooth decay by the third grade, and 86 percent by age 17.

Yet, with proper preventive care, such as regular check-ups, brushing, flossing, fluoridation, and dental sealants, the risk of dental disease can greatly be reduced.

This page was last updated on: May 22, 2009.

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