Why is CCCDC needed?

Poor oral health is a “silent epidemic” that is particularly evident among vulnerable individuals — especially children, elderly, certain racial and ethnic groups, and those with disabilities.  Untreated oral diseases are progressive and become more complex over time.  Tooth decay creates pain, speech, and nutrition problems, and poor self-esteem — all factors that contribute to an individual’s general health.  In addition, dental health has been linked to heart and lung disease, diabetes, stroke, osteoporosis, low birth weight and premature births, and a variety of oral diseases.

Inadequate dental care causes American children to lose 51 million school hours each year.  Many school children live in constant pain from untreated dental problems; many more are reluctant to smile or laugh because their teeth are decayed. 

Dental care is costly and virtually inaccessible for those without health insurance.  In addition, many people with health insurance do not have dental coverage. 

Right here in Chester County there is a shortage of dental professionals.  Both Coatesville and Oxford, for example, have been designated by The US Health and Human Service Office as a Dental Health Professional Shortage Area.  In Coatesville the population to dentist ratio is 27,090:1.

It is a huge problem… but one that we can overcome.
The professional staff and volunteers at Chester County Dental
are working to do just that.