Asotin County Oral Health Fact Sheet

Tooth decay is the single most common chronic disease of childhood, five times more common than asthma.  Poor oral health and loss of teeth, impacts:

• Speech
• Eating
• Self-esteem
• Social interaction
• Ability to learn
• Emotional state
• Overall general health

Two years of age is too late to begin prevention. To be effective, prevention programs should be targeted toward infants and toddlers.

Asotin County Significant Concerns:

• 60% of Asotin County 2nd & 3rd grade children have experienced decay (cavities or fillings)
• 81% of 8 year olds do not have sealants placed on permanent molars
• Only 29% of Medicaid eligible children 0-5 utilize dental care
• The city of Asotin is not fluoridated
• Designated a Primary and Dental Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA)

(Sources: Asotin County 2005 Smile Survey and Department of Health 2006 Oral Disease Burden Document)

Although tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood, it can be prevented.  Community water fluoridation, topical fluoride treatments, and dental sealants are some of the proven ways to prevent tooth decay.

• Topical fluoride treatments are available through local dental providers and the health district.  More families need to take advantage of topical fluoride treatment.
• Sealant placement is proven to prevent decay and protect teeth. More children need to have protective sealants placed on permanent molars.
• Families may not understand the importance of good oral health. More education needs to be available in health care settings to inform families of taking care of their mouth and teeth.

In order to improve the oral health of the children in Asotin County we must make concerted efforts to assure that our children receive the proven prevention strategies.

The Community Oral Health Coalition/Access to Care Committee work to assure improvements in the oral health of our community by increasing access to local dental services.