Oral Health Facts
The following provide facts and information about the status of oral health in Washington.
Children’s Oral Health
- Dental disease is the single most common chronic childhood disease—five times more common than asthma and seven times more common than hay fever. Learn more from our oral health and school readiness fact sheet.
- Washington’s 2015-16 Smile Survey is the latest statewide assessment of children’s oral health. It shows that children’s oral health in Washington is improving, but further work remains to address racial, ethnic and socio-economic inequities. Learn more from our 2015-16 Smile Survey overview and the full report.
- Over the last two decades, the rate of Medicaid insured children under age 6 receiving dental has more than doubled, from 22% to 43%, and children are being seen earlier before disease starts. Learn more from our ABCD program fact sheet.
Senior’s Oral Health
- Only about half of Washington seniors see a dentist each year, and disparities are significant by income and race/ethnicity. Learn more from a recent survey of Washington seniors.
Community Water Fluoridation
- About three-quarters of the country receive the health benefits of fluoridated water. In Washington state, only about 56 percent of residents receive optimally fluoridated drinking water. Learn more from our fluoridation fact sheet.
Oral Health Watch
6 hours ago
Good oral health care habits like brushing and flossing regularly and preventive public health measures like community water fluoridation are your best protection against cavities and tooth decay. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
6 hours ago
Good oral health care habits like brushing and flossing regularly and preventive public health measures like community water fluoridation are your best protection against cavities and tooth decay. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
9 hours ago
Good oral health care habits like brushing and flossing regularly and preventive public health measures like community water fluoridation are your best protection against cavities and tooth decay. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Every child deserves to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. Community water fluoridation, sealants, fluoride varnishes and access to routine preventive care can help keep kids cavity-free and set them on a lifelong path of good oral health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Every child deserves to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. Community water fluoridation, sealants, fluoride varnishes and access to routine preventive care can help keep kids cavity-free and set them on a lifelong path of good oral health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
4 days ago
👇💯Water fluoridation helps protect everyone's teeth against cavity-causing germs regardless of age and income level. #teethmatter