Alabama faces declining oral health among children
A report has uncovered a lack of access to oral health care and fluoridated water among children in Alabama.
In the report from the Alabama Department of Public Health, investigators conducted oral health screenings at 52 public schools across Alabama.
After a two-year study period, the investigators discovered that oral health among Alabama children has declined over the past few years. For instance, more than 15% of the children aged 1 to 17 years had experienced oral health issues such as toothaches, decayed teeth and cavities compared with 14.5% of children nationally.
Among the 67 counties in Alabama, only seven of them are 100% fluoridated by their water systems. Only 26 counties fall between 75% and 100%. The investigators determined that the counties with the highest rates of tooth decay lacked fluoridated public water systems. Over the past seven years, no municipalities have initiated water fluoridation practices, and several have eliminated their water fluoridation systems.
In addition, seven counties reported having one or no practicing dentists, and more than 50% of the state’s counties reported having one or no dentists younger than 40 years — representing dental deserts across the state. The investigators emphasized that dentist retention may be contributing to lower access to oral health care in children. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources Services Administration reported that as of May 27, 2024, 49 of the 67 counties in Alabama have a dental professional shortage.
The investigators hope their findings can inspire efforts to improve oral health among children in Alabama. Clinicians who are interested in finding out whether their patient’s water systems are fluoridated can visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s My Water’s Fluoride resource.
Read more: Alabama Daily News
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