Parents and families often struggle to provide sufficient health care for their children.  Often, critical medical concerns and appointments are prioritized, leaving oral health neglected.  Many people do not realize the ramifications that this can have for children.

Oral health is essential to the well-being of children.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is the most common chronic health problem plaguing U.S. citizens, including children.  These chronic conditions can have severe consequences.  Tooth decay, if untreated, can lead to problems speaking, eating, and even learning (Federal Bureau of Maternal and Child Health).  In addition, oral health problems are often visible problems, leading to social and other behavioral issues for children.

Oral health problems are most common in low-income populations, as well as in African American, Hispanic, and Native American populations (Rhonda Gonzales, Dental Health and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, The National Conference of State Legislators).  Children who come from low-income families are twice as likely to experience tooth decay as their counterparts in higher income families (United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention).

Fortunately, oral health problems can be both treated and, perhaps more importantly, prevented. In addition to addressing these problems on an individual basis with regular dental visits, cleanings, and sealants, there are steps that a community can take as well.  Communities can add flouride to their water, which can be a safe, effective way to prevent tooth decay on a larger scale (American Dental Association).  This is a way to reach all populations equally, including low-income populations, and other populations that are often subject to health disparities.

In response to this growing health concern, Women In Government, a national, nonprofit, bipartisan organization of state legislators, recently featured an educational segment focused on policy issues related to children’s oral health at the organization’s Annual Southern Regional Conference in Atlanta. During this segment, state legislators and others were provided with expert presentations from American Dental Association representatives and educational resources on oral health. This segment featured an overview of state policies to improve access to dental care for children, a discussion about how states can emulate these models, and an overview of relevant federal access legislation, including SCHIP reauthorization.  Women In Government is committed to the issue of improving children’s oral health.

For more information about Women In Government’s programs, educational resources, and upcoming events, please visit www.womeningovernment.org.