Oral Health Initiatives
About
Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic conditions of childhood in the United States, and nearly one-third of all U.S. adults have tooth decay. Poor oral health can have severe implications on overall health, but the good news is that tooth decay is largely preventable.
With their frequent access to patients, pharmacists are well-positioned to play a key role in promoting oral health awareness. Since 2010, the APhA Foundation has been exploring ways in which pharmacists can help dentists and other healthcare professionals improve the oral health awareness of Americans of all ages. In 2015, the APhA Foundation launched a partnership with America's Tooth Fairy to promote oral health and preventable measures to reduce tooth decay among children.
Below is information about oral health as a public health issue and information on how the APhA Foundation is working to impact this issue through pharmacists’ patient care services.