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
2 days ago
It's not always easy choosing water over sweet drinks and sodas. Check out these tips to make getting your daily water allowance easier. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Oral health profoundly impacts our lives. From sustaining basic health to achieving self-esteem and social belonging, the condition of your mouth influences overall physical, psychological, and socioeconomic well-being. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
4 days ago
Water fluoridation is one of the simplest, most effective ways to prevent cavities. It helps protect teeth every day, benefits people of all ages and income levels, and supports healthier communities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
5 days ago
Dental care access matters for the entire family! Studies show when caregivers and parents receive regular dental care, their kids are more likely to have good oral health, practice preventive habits, and avoid missed school due to dental problems. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
6 days ago
With untreated cavities increasing among Washington children across every racial and ethnic group, prevention is more important than ever. Community water fluoridation, sealants, fluoride varnishes, and access to regular checkups helps make it possible for kids to start life with a healthy smile. ...#teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 weeks ago
Access to preventive oral health care, fluoride, sealants and early treatment matters. Prevention protects health—and prevents a small problem from becoming a lifelong burden. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 weeks ago
One cavity can begin a lifetime cycle of fillings, repairs, pain and costly dental treatment. That’s why ensuring access to preventive dental care—and proven measures such as fluoride, dental sealants and regular checkups—is both sound health policy and a wise investment. Preventing disease ...before it starts improves health, reduces long-term costs and helps people keep their natural teeth throughout their lives. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
Healthy communities begin with access to preventive care - including oral health care. Regular checkups, screenings, and preventive measures like community water fluoridation help prevent disease and keep people healthy at every stage of life. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
Access to preventive oral health care is fiscally responsible public policy. Regular care helps prevent small problems from becoming painful, complex, and costly. Investing in prevention lowers long-term costs while supporting healthier people, stronger communities and a more productive workforce. ...#teethmatter