Untreated tooth decay is on the rise

For the first time in decades, dental disease has increased in America. The problem is most severe in seniors and children from low-income families. Former US Surgeon General David Satcher called it a "silent epidemic."

Tooth decay is now ranked as the top chronic childhood disease. And children from

low-income homes have more cavities than their peers--up to 3 times more.

Among older Americans, 20 percent have untreated cavities and 25 percent have severe gum disease.

Decayed or missing teeth, gum disease and chronic dental pain are miseries enough. But they can also mean a lifetime of problems, including missed days at school or work that cause further setbacks.

Without treatment, dental disease can lead to life-threatening conditions such as brain infection, heart attack and stroke. Local hospitals now report more emergency room visits for serious dental-related problems, confirming a troubling new trend.


Dental care is beyond the reach of many

Dental fees have risen 25 percent in recent years. And only 1 in 4 dentists in Washington accepts Medicaid patients.

Paying for dental care or finding a dentist who will accept Medicaid are only the first hurdles for many. When parents can't leave work or don't own a car, it is hard to get their children to scheduled dental appointments. Seniors who can't drive or are homebound face similar challenges. It all adds up to people not getting the dental care they need.