06/04/2026
Did you know tooth decay is the #1 chronic disease in American children — more common than asthma?
Nearly 1 in 4 children ages 2–5 already has cavities, and about 20% of kids ages 5–11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth. The good news? It's almost entirely preventable.
UCSF School of Dentistry's "Give Kids a Smile" program offers free dental care to children ages 3–17 — including exams, fluoride treatments, and sealants — no appointment needed. Programs like this matter: school-based sealant programs alone can cut new cavities by up to 60%.
Every child deserves a healthy smile. Talk to your child's dentist about fluoride varnish, dental sealants, and good brushing habits starting early. 🪥
👉 Learn more about children's oral health resources at UCSF: https://dentistry.ucsf.edu
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