The Center for Disease Control and Prevention, in its Trends in Oral Health Status report, revealed an increase in the number of children ages 2 to 5 suffering from cavities in the US, reversing a decades-long trend of decline. Getting children to develop good brushing habits early is critical because oral disease remains a national epidemic with tooth decay now being the single most common chronic childhood disease among 5 to 17 year olds -- more common than asthma or hay fever. Poor dental health has the potential to lead to far more serious problems in adulthood. In addition, a report released earlier this year by the Pew Center on the States Children's Dental Campaign indicates that "between 2009 and 2018, annual spending for dental services in the U.S. is projected to increase 58 percent, from $101.9 billion to $161.4 billion. Approximately one-third of the money will go to dental services for children."

"Tooth decay is the most widespread of chronic illnesses affecting children," said Greg Gipson, Director of Operations, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast. "Poor dental health has been associated with diabetes, heart disease and malnourishment. Clearly, good dental health is critical to a child's overall health, we believe education is the first defense."

Added Darrell Guy, Sr., Director of Special Projects for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Louisiana's NFL-Youth Education Town site: "This is an area that has and continues to face enormous challenges, but one of our greatest assets is our people. Providing our children with information and tools to take proper care of their teeth, gums and overall health is an investment in their future and the future of our communities."

SOURCE Colgate-Palmolive Company