We have a neglected epidemic in our country. Tooth decay is the number one chronic disease among children. It affects five times as many children as does asthma. Toothaches rob children of their ability to learn and participate in daily activities. What most people don't realize is that this disease is totally preventable.
Current resources are inadequate.
Oral health is necessary for overall health and well being. We can protect all children from dental disease. It has been a problem that has been off the radar screen for too many years. This is why we need to mobilize the public to support adequately funded dental health services and programs for all children in every community. It takes a whole community to solve the problem.