Both Bingaman and Cochran say the extent of dental problems among this high-risk segment of the population warrants quick action in Congress. We believe this bill addresses the long-standing health care problems of children from families with moderate or low incomes. Such children, especially those with Medicaid, receive virtually no dental care. Substandard dental care affects more than just a child's teeth. Annually, dental-related illnesses on average result in 117,000 missed school hours per 100,000 children.
Tooth decay is the most prevalent preventable chronic condition of childhood.
Eighty percent of all dental cavities in children are found in 20 percent of the population. The Children's Dental Health Improvement Act of 1999 identifies the mounting problems facing dental professionals and children. They include insufficient support for children, shortage of dental-health professionals and lack of accessibility to dental care in rural areas. The bill will give children access to appropriate and needed dental care without income being a determining factor.