Oral Health
Good oral health is an important part of good overall health. Dental public health focuses on improving oral health for all Americans by reducing disparities and expanding access to effective prevention programs. Examples of CDC’s efforts in this area include community water fluoridation and school dental sealant programs.
CDC also monitors disease across the nation and is working to integrate oral health programs into chronic disease prevention efforts and medical care.
In the Spotlight
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention partnered with the American Academy of Pediatrics to raise awareness of this important issue from the start—during pregnancy. A new oral health toolkit is available, providing tools and resources to medical and dental providers who care for pregnant women. These materials help raise awareness about the importance of oral health as part of prenatal care, and support clinicians in talking with pregnant women about their oral health and the future oral health of their baby.
Learn more about the Oral Health ToolkitExternal and download posters for the office, infographics, videos, and a Q&A handout about oral health during pregnancy and for infants.
Data on children and adults, common oral diseases and how populations are affected
Information on the benefits of water fluoridation, as well as recommendations and guidance for water engineers and operators
Guidelines and resources on infection prevention practices in dental settings