Dental is Fundamental—Ensuring the Smiles of All New Yorkers

This fact sheet from the Schuyler Center, with support from NYHealth, presents key facts about the health impact and costs associated with tooth decay in New York State, and recommends investing in prevention efforts in New York State.

Tooth decay remains the most common chronic childhood disease in America. Data shows that 51% of New York adults said that they have lost one or more teeth to decay or gum disease, and children from low-income families in New York are more likely to have untreated decay than their wealthier peers. The fact sheet includes a comparison of costs for a few different prevention strategies, including school-based programs and individual treatments.

The Schuyler Center has also issued two accompanying issue briefs: “Prevention First: Making Sure New York Smiles,” and “Successful Strategies for Keeping Kids Cavity-Free.”