Did you know that dental caries (tooth decay) is the most common chronic disease in children and adults in the United States, affecting 78% of children and 92% of adults aged 20-64?

(Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020).

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Raleigh-based Wake Smiles, a nonprofit dental clinic, provides dental care to low-income, uninsured adults in Wake County.

They have a sliding fee scale and offer free dental care to those who are uninsured and low-income.

The American Dental Association recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday to establish good oral hygiene habits and detect any potential issues early on.

Dental clinics in Raleigh, such as the Raleigh Rescue Mission Dental Clinic, prioritize providing access to underserved communities, including the homeless population.

Research suggests that oral bacteria can affect overall health, with studies linking periodontal disease to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

The UNCG Dental School Community Service Clinic provides discounted services to the community, allowing dental students to gain experience while providing essential dental care to those in need.

Community organizations like the Dental Care Ministry at St.

Raphael Catholic Church offer free dental care to underserved adults and children.

The North Carolina Dental Society Foundation offers free dental care for adults and children from underserved communities through portable clinics and school-based programs.

The Donated Dental Services (DDS) program, a nationwide program, connects dentists with patients in need, providing free dental care to those who cannot afford it.

A study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that low-income children are more likely to experience dental caries due to limited access to dental care.

Regional Smiles, a new program in Wake County, offers no-cost dental cleanings to uninsured children ages 0-18, aiming to increase access to preventive dental care in underserved areas.

The Community Health Alliance of Wake County partners with local dentists to offer sliding-scale dental services to low-income residents.