Oral Health Fast Facts

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Overview
  • Untreated cavities can cause pain and infections that may lead to problems with eating, speaking, and learning.
  • By age 8, over half of children had a cavity in their primary teeth.
  • One in four adults aged 20–64 years currently has untreated tooth decay.
  • Dental sealants prevent 80% of cavities.
  • Drinking fluoridated water keeps teeth strong and reduces cavities by about 25% in children and adults.
  • The health care system could save up to $100M each year if dental offices performed screenings for diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Medical-dental integration between oral health and chronic disease prevention programs benefits patients and saves money.
Page last reviewed: January 17, 2020
Content source: Division of Oral Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion