Oral Health/Dental Coalition

Prevention of early childhood tooth decay through improved access to dental services is the key to Okanogan’s County Public Health's Oral Health Program. Early-childhood cavities (caries) or tooth decay is the single most common chronic disease of childhood. Often called the “silent epidemic,” the first Surgeon General’s Report on Oral Health in America (2000) describes the seriousness of the issue and offers guidance for community efforts to ensure all children have access to dental care, from the time of their first tooth.

 

• Chronic mouth infections – impacting overall general health
   
• Mouth pain – inability to eat comfortably or chew well leads to poor nutrition and general health
   
• Weakened immune system -- increases vulnerability to other disease
   
• Low self-esteem (for older children) – embarrassment, isolation and withdrawal
   
• Child cannot learn when distracted by constant pain from untreated oral disease
   
• Fewer smiles – children with chronic mouth pain often don’t smile
   

Okanogan County's water systems do not contain fluoride.
 

Information and Referral
Okanogan County Public Health offers informational brochures about oral health, advice on caring for teeth and referrals to local dentists in the community. The program has partners throughout the community.  For more information call (509) 422-7140.

Oral Health Coalition
A diverse group of individuals and organizations dedicated to oral health comprise Okanogan County’s Oral Health Coalition. Led by Okanogan County Public Health, the coalition meets quarterly and works together on issues and activities to improve the oral health of the community and increase public awareness of the importance of proper dental hygiene.  For more information about Okanogan County’s Oral Health Coalition call (509) 422-7140.