Awareness: Supporting Families to Achieve Oral Health

A recent survey by the ADA revealed that eight of 10 Americans agree that caring for ones teeth, mouth, and gums is important, but that only one-third report doing an "excellent" job in caring for them.

Public and health professional awareness about the infectious and transmissible nature of tooth decay is a key factor in preventing early childhood tooth decay.  A recent survey by the ADA revealed that eight of 10 Americans agree that caring for ones teeth, mouth, and gums is important, but that only one-third report doing an "excellent" job in caring for them- but parents reported that they need more information on how to improve their children's oral health.  Increasing awareness and developing messages that are targeted to families at appropriate health literacy levels and are culturally competent is critical to preventing and managing early childhood tooth decay and limiting the life-long impact of the disease.

Families are not the only ones in need of additional information, professionals that regularly see children also often lack adequate information or knowlegde on preventing tooth decay.  CDHP continues to work with dental professionals, physicians, nurses, social workers, and child care providers (just to name a few) to understand their role in preventing and managing tooth decay in young children.