Tips for Montana Families to Support Children's Dental Health and Overall Well-Being

Oral health is more than just a bright smile, it’s an important part of a child’s growth, development and overall well-being. Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among kids in the U.S., affecting nearly half of children ages 2-19. About 1 in 10 children ages 2-5 experience untreated decay, a number that climbs to nearly 1 in 5 by ages 6-8.

Across the U.S., Montana has the second-highest percentage of its population living in dental deserts (7.8%). In these areas, residents often travel long distances to find access to care, increasing the risk of delayed or missed treatment and the...