Desert Kids Dental, a US-based pediatric dental practice is flagging recent, worrying statistics from the National Health Interview Survey which looked at dental trends among American patients between 2019 and 2020.
Worryingly, the data portrays a serious picture of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pediatric dental health. In particular, yearly examinations and cleanings declined for infants aged 1–4 years as well as for young children and adolescents aged 12–17 years. Moreover, children from families below the federal poverty level were even less likely to have any of these annual check-ups.
‘We were fully aware of the fact that the pandemic has had a dire impact on access to dental services across all age groups. Infants and children are a particular case since they are mostly dependent on their parents and caregivers to look after their dental needs. The findings from the National Health Survey demonstrate that only now are we able to see the true impact that COVID-19 has had both in terms of preventative and restorative treatments among children. Dental examinations and cleanings are often deprioritized even in normal times, therefore additional barriers are bound to have even more of an impact on pediatric oral health‘, a Desert Kids Dental spokesperson said in regards to the findings.
In terms of trends across U.S. geographies, the Midwest and West were the least impacted, with annual check-ups and cleaning remaining somewhat steady while the South and the Northeast parts of the U.S. saw the highest declines.
‘We can attest to the fact that across Nevada, we have noticed these declines since 2019. This data offers a great opportunity to raise awareness and highlight the urgency of the situation. We must work together with parents, caregivers, teachers as well as other expert pediatric dentists to concentrate our efforts towards an appropriate response. The best time to start this was yesterday. We need to prevent long-term damage and protect the oral health of our children as a matter of priority‘, concluded the spokesperson.
Oral health is an important part of the healthy development of childhood. Desert Kids Dental offers comprehensive oral health services and dental procedures tailored for infants, children and adolescents.
About Desert Kids Dental
Pediatric dental clinic Desert Kids Dental is based in Las Vegas, Nevada and specializes in providing children’s dentistry services and preventative treatments. Led by Meet Dr. Sandra Thompson, a professional with a wealth of experience and accreditations in the field of pediatric dentistry, the clinic is well-versed in offering both treatments and expert advice for parents. Dr. Thompson has designed an approach to care with her patients – infants, children and adolescents, front of mind to ensure a comfortable and pleasant experience.
Media ContactCompany Name: Desert Kids Dental Contact Person: Media RelationsEmail: Send EmailPhone: 702-660-7099Address:9859 W Deer Springs Way STE 110 City: Las VegasState: NV 89149Country: United StatesWebsite: https://www.desertkidsdental.com/contact