Blog
In a recent study by the Pew Charitable Trusts, Arizona was ranked third from the bottom for children’s oral health. The state was also given a ‘D’ grade when it came to high-needs schools that were missing dental sealant programs. Part of the bad ranking was also due to third grade-aged children having a significantly higher rate of tooth decay than other states.
Some Arizonian parents may think that it’s not a big deal if a child gets a cavity in his or her baby teeth, but that is not the case, even if it will soon fall out. Tooth decay can spread into the child’s adult tooth, causing damage right away, something that can be much more costly and problematic down the line.
Another common excuse is that the family genetically has bad teeth. Whether or not that is true holds no argument in regards to tooth decay; just because Mom, Dad, Grandpa, and Grandpa may have had cavities or dental problems does not mean that the child is doomed to have bad teeth.
Some of the problems associated with Arizona’s bad teeth ratings stem from many insurance companies who do not cover vital procedures such as sealants or fluoride treatments. These preventative measures can help reduce tooth decay starting at the age of 1 and are integral to good oral health.
The good news is that next year, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System plans to cover fluoride varnish as part of the statewide medical care for children. It is important to make sure your kiddies see their pediatric dentist as soon as their baby teeth start erupting, and instill good hygiene habits to help deter those nasty cavities away.
