N.C. officials promote children's dental health
N.C. health officials say Medicaid expansion will help lessen disparities in access to oral health care for children. Adobe stock photo
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and North Carolina officials are stressing the importance of kids' dental hygiene.
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, nearly one in five kindergartners in the state have untreated tooth decay, which can lead to long-term health issues.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been cited as a contributing factor in declining oral health in children. Recent data shows that the rate of untreated cavities among kindergartners is at a five-year peak, while the rates of treatment are at their lowest. And disparities in health care remain, with access to care a major barrier for low-income individuals and families.
NCDHHS officials say there are options for those seeking dental care, particularly with the recent expansion of Medicaid.
The state has provided a list of nonprofit dental facilities for low-income families that offer insurance options and sliding-scale fees. Parents and caregivers can also locate NC Medicaid-enrolled dentists online.
The NCDHHS Division of Public Health maintains an oral health webpage for those seeking more information.
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