'Prior exam rule' hinders prevention of child tooth decay

By Michael P. Rethman

POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Mar 05, 2013

~~<p>We can improve oral health for Hawaii's children. And we should — because the numbers tell a disturbing story.</p>
<p>In 2010, Hawaii's Health Department screened more than 9,100 schoolchildren and found that more than 1 in 4 had serious dental problems that required "urgent or acute dental treatment." Most of these serious dental conditions began as cavities. We would do a much better job of preventing tooth decay if Hawaii provided dental sealants to more children.</p>
~~

We can improve oral health for Hawaii's children. And we should — because the numbers tell a disturbing story.

In 2010, Hawaii's Health Department screened more than 9,100 schoolchildren and found that more than 1 in 4 had serious dental problems that required "urgent or acute dental treatment." Most of these serious dental conditions began as cavities. We would do a much better job of preventing tooth decay if Hawaii provided dental sealants to more children. Login for more...