One important function of routine dental care is the diagnosis and treatment of tooth decay or cavities (dental caries) and periodontal disease. Dental caries is the most common chronic disease in children but can also be found in adults. Left untreated, dental caries can lead to unnecessary pain, infection, sleepless nights, loss of the affected tooth, social embarrassment, mood swings, missed days at work, and expensive treatment.
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, develops when bacteria grow in the gums and roots of teeth. A bacterial infection, periodontal disease damages tissue and causes gaps to form around the roots of teeth that can eventually loosen them. It is a serious health concern because a bacterial infection in the mouth can often cause many other health complications. Recent research suggests a relationship between periodontal disease and heart disease, stroke, preterm births, diabetes, and other conditions.
The risk factors for oral diseases are essentially the same ones that affect several other chronic diseases: diet and nutrition, hygiene, smoking, alcohol, and lack of access to care. Fortunately, most oral diseases can be prevented with simple and effective measures, including getting regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) deemed oral health a priority for Healthy People 2030, with 15 of its objectives related to oral health. According to the CDC, the overall goal of the Healthy People 2030 oral health objectives is to prevent and control oral and craniofacial diseases, conditions, and injuries and improve access to related services. Visiting a dental office is the only way to properly assess the overall health of one's teeth and gums. It is important for public health officials to monitor this trend to gauge access to preventive and restorative dental care among adults in the community.
This indicator measures the number of adults in Skagit County who have visited the dentist or a dental clinic within the past year for any reason. Washington State and the U.S. are offered as benchmarks.
Note: This indicator is a biennial survey, therefore the data comes out every two years.
