Children

Cavities don’t have to be a part of growing up.

Even though it is largely preventable, tooth decay remains young kids’ most common chronic illness. Rampant decay, untreated cavities, and tooth loss during childhood can have devastating, long-term effects that follow kids into adulthood. Poor oral health can impact school attendance, nutrition, self-esteem, behavior, speech patterns, sleep, and a child’s ability to thrive. The consequences of tooth loss and untreated cavities in childhood can affect future success and satisfaction with one’s life in the long term. Studies show children who experience tooth decay in their primary teeth are more likely to have cavities in their secondary teeth, potentially impacting their oral health and overall health as adults.

It doesn’t have to be that way. Access to regular checkups as soon as a child gets their first tooth and public health measures like water fluoridation can pave the way for a lifetime of good oral health. Supporting oral health investments throughout childhood is especially important as kids and teens take on new responsibilities and learn behaviors that could affect their overall health and well-being into adulthood.

Fortunately, Washington state also is a national leader in providing preventive oral health care for lower-income children, thanks mainly to the Access to Baby & Child Dentistry (ABCD) program. ABCD connects families covered by Apple Health (Medicaid) with dentists specially trained in caring for young children, focusing on cavity prevention and educating caregivers on caring for their child’s teeth. ABCD is a public-private partnership created to increase access for children ages five and younger. The state expanded the program in 2022 to include children with a developmental disability through age 12. We hope to build on these successes and continue to expand eligibility in ABCD.

A cavity-free childhood is possible. When young children have access to preventive oral health care and early treatment, it can set them on a lifelong path of good health and opportunity.

Click here to find an Access to Baby & Child Dentistry program dentist near you.

If your child is older than age five, click here to go to DentistLink.