Tooth decay is the single most prevalent chronic childhood disease - 5 times more common than asthma and 7 times more common than hay fever. Much of the suffering associated with oral disease is preventable. In Westchester County a growing number of young children have serious dental conditions. Numerous causes have been cited including:

• Many new immigrants to the County arrive from countries where preventive dental care is not the norm.
• Many parents do not understand the importance of routine oral hygiene and dental care, especially for young children.
• Even for families who have dental insurance, barriers such as lack of transportation and lack of convenient appointment times make it difficult for children to get regular dental care.

WCA has formed the Oral Health subcommittee of the Child Health Task Force, which identifies reasons for children's poor oral health and develops innovative solutions. Members include dentists, hygienists, HMOs, school doctors and nurses, nurses in early childhood programs, County Health Department, and elected officials.

WCA surveyed low-income parents about their experiences in using the dental coverage included in Child Health Plus, the State's insurance program.