RALEIGH, N.C. — February is National Children's Dental Health Month, so the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is working to raise awareness about it.
According to recent numbers from NCDHHS, in North Carolina, nearly one in five kindergartners have untreated tooth decay.
“The recent data showed it was the highest observed in five years," dentist supervisor for programs in the oral health section for NCDHHS Dr. Ruma Simhan said. "Five years ago, it was 15.7[%]. Now, it's at 19.9%."
The numbers also show rates of treated decay, and no decay are at their lowest.
Simhan said the rise was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“[It’s] lack of access and affordability issues are both issues that we are dealing with in the oral health space,” she said.
She also shared, in the Charlotte area, the rate of untreated decay is 16.6%. However, Simhan said the recent Medicaid expansion is helping to expand access.
“The oral health section where I work, we have a 'train the trainer' model where we continue to provide programs to help educate providers who work with populations across the lifespan," Simhan said. "So, at the oral health section we essentially try to bridge the gap."
Simhan also mentions oral health can be linked to things like heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.
NCDHHS said dental decay is the most common chronic childhood disease and is largely preventable.
They are encouraging parents and caregivers to follow these tips to help with their children’s oral health:
- Schedule regular dental check-ups for your child, starting at age one. Early detection and prevention are key to maintaining good oral health.
- Brush your child’s teeth twice a day with the correct amount of fluoride toothpaste. Floss your child’s teeth as recommended by your child’s dentist. Eat a balanced diet while limiting sugary snacks and beverages. Sugar is a significant contributor to dental decay.
- Ask your child’s health care team about the use of fluoride varnish and dental sealants to protect your child's teeth from decay.
- Be a role model for your child's oral health by maintaining your own dental hygiene routines.
NCDHHS also has a list of resources to help connect you to dentists and other helpful information.
Contact Nick Sturdivant at nsturdiva1@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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