ORAL HEALTH PROGRAM at
Texas Health Institute
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
In 2000, the U.S. Surgeon General described oral diseases as a ‘silent epidemic’. Oral health is an integral dimension of overall physical health and well-being. Research has suggested the need to cease the idea of viewing the mouth separately from the rest of the body. Oral health affects general health by causing considerable pain and suffering thus leading to a poor quality of life and well-being. Additionally, it complicates chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart diseases.
Texas Health Institute's ORAL HEALTH VISION
We seek to improve the oral health of Texans by engaging in research and projects that:
- Evaluate and improve methods to monitor oral diseases and outcomes
- Reduce disparities in access to dental care
- Increase awareness about oral health and its effect on overall health and well-being
- Increase awareness for a data-driven and evidence based policy development process at the state and national level
KEY FACTS
- 75% of Americans have some type of mouth disease
- Tooth decay is the most chronic illness among school-age children
- Almost 6 out of 10 Texas children have a history of dental decay and over a quarter have untreated decay
- Over 19% of Texas population lives in a dental HPSA (Health Professional Shortage Area), which is higher than the national average of 15%
- Employed adults lose over 164 million work hours a year related to oral health problems
We are excited to announce our partnership with the Texas Oral Health Coalition to Advance the Oral Health Movement in Texas. To learn more and participate in our ongoing initiative please click here.
Our Partners
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