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
9h
Cavities don't have to be a part of growing up. When we invest in preventive measures like water fluoridation, sealants, fluoride varnishes and dental care access, we make it possible for every child to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
13h
Cavities don't have to be a part of growing up. When we invest in preventive measures like water fluoridation, sealants, fluoride varnishes and dental care access, we make it possible for every child to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
15h
Absolutely, @JudithHaber3! #oralhealthmatters
@OralHealthWatch Every pregnant person wants to be a good parent! Coaching them about oral hygiene strategies and providing oral health literacy products about the importance of oral health for both mom and baby is the way to get a jump start on a healthy life.
Oral Health Watch
15h
#teethfortwo #oralhealthmatters
A6: Oral health IS health! Dental professionals are part of your pregnant patients’ care team. Through education, oral health screenings, and dental referrals, you'll set your patient and their baby up for a lifetime of good oral & overall health. #teethfortwo #oralhealthmatters https://twitter.com/All4OralHealth/status/1541857714921320453
Oral Health Watch
15h
A6: We wish more health care professionals recognized that cavities can be prevented & preventive measures like water fluoridation, routine dental care checkups & a consistent oral care routine can help set parent & baby on a cavity-free path. #teethfortwo #oralhealthmatters
Q6: What do you wish more health professionals knew about the importance of oral health during pregnancy?
Oral Health Watch
15h
A5: Information & resources from trusted resources like a person's prenatal care provider & dentist offer important information on the benefits of good oral health for both baby and parent & valuable tips on maintaining a healthy mouth. #teethfortwo #oralhealthmatters
Q5: What oral health literacy resources should be provided to pregnant patients?