These advances have resulted in more people keeping their natural teeth throughout their lives, resulting in improved overall health. However, these advances in oral health care are not enjoyed by everyone. Even Dr. Satcher, an African-American and the U.S. Surgeon General, did not have his first dental visit until he was a college student. Some barriers to good oral health care and medical care are economic. There are other barriers to access.
Some regions including rural and urban areas suffer shortages of dentists and dental hygienists.
According to a state report, in 1999, about half of Nebraskans were affected, by some extent, by lack of access to dental care. Forty-six counties were designated as State Dental Shortage Areas. Sixteen of Nebraska s 93 counties are without a dentist. Some Medicaid-eligible Nebraska children must travel five hours to find a pediatric dentist for their complex treatment needs. Water fluoridation is one of the simplest, safest, and most cost-effective ways of preventing cavities and benefits people of all ages and backgrounds.