Cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases among children in the U.S. About one in five children 5 to 11 has at least one untreated cavity. In Arizona, more than half of Arizona’s kindergarten children have tooth decay, which is much higher than the national average.
According to the 2024 Delta Dental of Arizona Children’s Oral Health Survey, while parents remain committed to their children’s dental health, they still have some obstacles to overcome. Nearly 80% acknowledged their child’s oral health is not as good as it could be.
Parents say this is because they do not floss enough; eat too many sweets; do not brush enough; and/or drink too much juice and soda. The survey also showed that families’ daily lives are interrupted when kids experience dental problems. Almost three in five parents whose kids have had issues with their teeth say that the consequences have impacted other parts of their lives.
Most parents also admit they find it challenging to get their children to brush their teeth. More than two-thirds experience difficulties getting their kids to comply with this critical dental health practice. Taking time away from more enjoyable activities is the biggest issue followed by kids finding flossing boring.
The good news: preventive care is on the rise. Among those who took their child to the dentist, more than nine in ten did so for preventive care!
Takeaway: parents’ involvement is crucial for their child’s oral hygiene.
DidYou Know?
DidYou Know?Because good oral and vision health starts at infancy, Delta Dental of Arizona’s individual and family plans encourage parents to get regular checkups for their kids with the Free Until Three™ benefit. Simply put, there is no charge to cover dependents under the age of 3.
Learn more at smilepoweraz.com
