East Tennessee students are experiencing a sharp increase in dental decay. Megan Jacks, a registered dental hygienist at Knox County Health Department (KCHD), reports that assessments focus on overall oral health, including signs of decay and dental pain.
Sarah Naill, a veteran dental hygienist, notes that severe dental issues, previously affecting 3 to 6% of students, have surged to 15%. Contributing factors include a shortage of dental providers and transportation barriers in Knox County.
Krystal Gulley, a school nurse at Norwood Elementary, highlights how tooth pain can impair students’ ability to learn and focus.
To combat this, Naill recommends early dental visits starting at age one, with regular checkups every six months. The Knox County Health Department is conducting a survey to further investigate the issue, closing on September 6.
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