A new report card on oral healths says Kansas is still falling behind many other states. The 2023 Kansas Oral Health Report Card gives the state a letter grade of “C” overall; but, the state received even lower grades in some areas. The report gave the state a “D” for fluoride because on 65% of Kansans have Federally recomended levels of fluoride in their drinking. The National average is 73%.
Oral Health Kansas, Executive Director, Tanya Dorf Brunner, says having fluoridated water and using toothpaste with fluoride can help prevent cavities. She adds that you still need to take care of your teeth in many other ways, but you’re going to really have a lot of protection with fluoride. The report also gave Kansas an “F” for the low number of one to two year olds visiting a dentist.
Brunner says many families might not know that it’s important for young children to see a dentist, saying if parents can help kids get to kindergarten being cavity free, they’re going to be healthier for their whole life. The state’s oral health ranking improved somewhat last year when dental coverage was added for Kansans on Medicaid
