Of all chronic health conditions, the most common are tooth decay, gingivitis (bleeding gums), periodontitis (dental bone loss) and oral malodor (chronic bad breath)*. Millions of children and students suffer dental disease due to poor oral health awareness and lack of timely dental visits.

Poor oral health limits learning and performance causing more school absenteeism than any other health concern*. The challenges of higher education can present risk for poor oral health due to changes in self-care, diet habits, and lifestyle choices. Dental illness is progressive and cumulative harming overall health, well-being and options for self-development over the life span*.

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