Of all chronic health conditions, the most common are tooth decay, gingivitis (bleeding gums), periodontitis (bone loss around teeth) and oral malodor (bad breath).* Millions of children and young adults suffer with dental disease due to a lack of timely preventive, educational, and treatment services.

Poor oral health reduces learning and performance. Oral health problems cause more school absenteeism than any other health concern.* The challenges and stress of higher education makes students at greater risk for poor oral health due to changes in self-care, diet habits, and lifestyle choices, which in turn threaten general health. Mouth problems are cumulative with age and significantly impact overall health and well-being*.

Reference:
* Surgeon General's Oral Health Report (2000)