DALLAS (KDAF) — Texas children have the unhealthiest teeth in the United States, with 18.6% of children in the state suffering from decayed teeth or cavities. The rate is the highest of any state in the country, according to new research.
The findings come from an analysis of the latest National Survey of Children’s Health data covering 2024. The study, conducted by Smile Partners USA, found that the state’s dental health ranking is influenced by provider shortages and limited Medicaid access.
STUDY: The 10 U.S. States With the Highest Rates of Childhood Tooth Decay
| Rank | State | Percentage of Decayed Teeth or Cavities |
| 1 | Texas | 18.6 |
| 2 | Missouri | 17.8 |
| 3 | Utah | 15.4 |
| 4 | Indiana | 15.3 |
| 5 | South Dakota | 15.2 |
| 6 | Idaho | 15 |
| 7 | Arkansas | 14.9 |
| 8 | Mississippi | 14.9 |
| 9 | Oklahoma | 14.3 |
| 10 | Michigan | 14.2 |
The research team reviewed data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Health Resources and Services Administration. To determine the rankings, researchers analyzed parental responses regarding whether children between the ages of one and 17 had frequent or chronic difficulty with decayed teeth or cavities in the previous 12 months.
STUDY: The 10 U.S. States With the Lowest Rates of Childhood Tooth Decay
| Rank | State | Percentage of Decayed Teeth or Cavities |
| 1 | New Hampshire | 8 |
| 2 | Massachusetts | 8 |
| 3 | Rhode Island | 8.8 |
| 4 | Nebraska | 9.2 |
| 5 | New Jersey | 9.6 |
| 6 | North Dakota | 9.7 |
| 7 | Maine | 9.7 |
| 8 | Hawaii | 9.9 |
| 9 | Florida | 9.9 |
| 10 | Colorado | 10.4 |
Dr. John Poczatek, the chief dental officer of Smile Partners USA, identified several environmental and behavioral factors contributing to the high rates of decay. “Tooth decay in children usually comes down to a handful of factors, diet and sugar intake, how often families are able to get their kids to a dentist, whether their tap water has fluoride in it and everyday habits like brushing,” Poczatek said.
Access to professional care remains a challenge for many Texas families. More than 100 counties in the state are currently designated as dental health professional shortage areas. Dr. Poczatek noted that the administrative landscape for insurance further complicates the situation for many residents.
Reportedly, few companies manage Medicaid dental coverage for children statewide. One of those providers recently began limiting the number of new dentists it will add to its network across dozens of counties. Poczatek said these factors make it “even harder for lower-income families to find care.”
Health officials emphasized that routine preventative measures can improve outcomes regardless of local shortages. Dr. Poczatek recommended brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, reducing the consumption of juice and sugary snacks and maintaining regular checkups.
For families concerned about the cost of services, Federally Qualified Health Centers provide dental care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.
Original article online at: https://cw33.com/news/local/texas-children-have-unhealthiest-teeth-in-u-s-study-finds/amp/