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Children's Oral Health
Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic infectious diseases among U.S.
children. This preventable health problem begins early: 28 percent of children
aged 2–5 years have already had decay in their primary (baby) teeth. By the age
of 11, approximately half of children have experienced decay, and by the age of
19, tooth decay in the permanent teeth affects two-thirds (68 percent) of
adolescents. Low-income children have twice as much untreated decay as children
in families with higher incomes. This may result in pain, dysfunction,
underweight, and poor appearance—problems that can greatly reduce a child's
capacity to succeed in the educational environment.
More Information on Children's Oral Health
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