Dental Health and Pediatrics

Abstract

Dental problems continue to rank as the most common health problem of children today. Caries is remarkably prevalent and about half of school-aged children have some form of malocclusion or gingival disease. The situation is particularly pressing for the poor, among whom it is estimated that 97% of children require dental care. Not only is there a need for the treatment of caries but also for the institution of measures to prevent progressive periodontal disease in later life. Most oral diseases are preventable through adequate dental care and the establishment of preventive practices in the home. The pediatrician is in an excellent position to assist in the attainment of this goal by reinforcing these measures. Although the pediatrician can do little about increasing access to medical care, especially for the poor, he can play a more active role in the early identification of problems and facilitating appropriate referrals. The challenges and opportunities are great; with the enhanced knowledge of the nature of dental health problems provided here the pediatrician should be able to make a significant contribution to diminishing this large category of unmet health needs.