Dental caries (cavities) and gum disease are preventable, but if untreated, can cause serious problems. Oral health means more than teeth, but is an integral part of overall wellness. Prolonged poor oral health can cause:

·          Pain

·          Low self-esteem

·          Eating problems

·          Learning and speech difficulties

In adults, tooth loss has been linked to dementia and poor pregnancy outcomes; tooth decay may increase the risk of heart disease, and diabetes and gum disease together can greatly complicate blood sugar control.

We have an alarming oral health problem in our community that is only beginning to be addressed. Based on national ratios, we estimate that roughly 148,200 Jackson County residents do not have dental insurance.

Several years ago La Clinica decided to approach dental health in a radically different way, one that embraces the notion that community-based oral health education and prevention can indeed turn the tide. We started with kids and called our new approach Happy Smiles! Dental Health Education and Prevention Program.  This program serves over 5,000 needy children every year—preventing cavities and leading the fight for good oral health!

To read more about the dental health crisis in our community and La Clinica’s extraordinary approach to preventing caries in children and other needy communities, click here.