Share of Cost, Tooth decay is the leading chronic childhood illness in the US.
According to National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 42% of children aged 2-11 in the US have had dental caries, or tooth decay, in their primary teeth, while 21% of children aged 6-11 have had dental caries in their adult teeth. Poor oral hygiene and high consumption of sugary foods and drinks are common causes of dental caries in children.