Tooth decay significantly impacts the health of Delawareans of all ages from all walks of life.

• It is the most common chronic childhood disease in the U.S. today. Yet, most dental disease is nearly 100 percent preventable.
• With links to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and many other diseases, good overall health can be achieved with good oral health.
• If left untreated, cavities and other dental infections can spread to other parts of the body and, in very rare cases, be life-threatening.

Healthy dental habits should come as naturally as buckling up our seatbelts, and oral health education is a vital first step.

Oral Health in Delaware Fast Facts:

• Dental care accounts for an estimated 9,000 annual emergency room visits.
• 47 percent of third-graders have experienced tooth decay.
• More than 45 percent of adults have had a permanent tooth extracted.
• Nearly 17 percent of adults ages 65 and older have had all their teeth extracted.
• More than 41 percent of those with disabilities have not seen a dentist in more than one year or have never had a dental visit.