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Oral Health

Oral health — the health of your mouth — is an important part of good overall health and well-being.

Nationally, more than half of children ages 6 to 19 have experienced tooth decay. In NYC, more than one in three third-grade students have untreated tooth decay. About nine in 10 adults in the U.S. have experienced tooth decay and nearly half of adults have gum disease. In NYC, one in four adults ages 65 and older have no teeth.

By taking simple measures, most oral health problems can be prevented. Preventing oral health problems can reduce health care expenses.

Tips for Good Oral Health

You can prevent gum disease and tooth decay by following these tips:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day. Use toothpaste that contains fluoride and a soft bristled toothbrush.

  • Floss daily: The spaces between your teeth or under your gums can not be reached with a toothbrush. Learn the right way to floss.

  • Eat healthy. Limit the number of snacks throughout the day and avoid sugary and starchy snacks.

  • Drink tap water. The fluoride in New York City’s tap water helps prevent tooth decay.

  • Avoid tobacco. Tobacco significantly increases your risk for gum disease and mouth and throat cancer.

  • Limit alcohol. Heavy alcohol use increases the risk for mouth and throat cancer, especially when used in combination with tobacco.

  • Visit the dentist. Regular dental visits (PDF) help to prevent oral diseases and catch problems early, when they are easier to treat.

  • Ask about fluoride treatment. Speak to your dentist or doctor about topical fluoride, a coating that is painted on the teeth to prevent tooth decay.

Poor Oral Health Outcomes

Poor oral health can have a negative impact on your overall health and well-being. The mouth acts as an entry point to the rest of the body. Not keeping up with your oral health can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, as well as many problems throughout the body.

Some examples of health problems that are linked to poor oral health are:

  • Heart disease: People with poor oral health (including gum disease) have an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

  • Diabetes complications: People with diabetes are at a higher risk for gum disease and other oral health issues, including dry mouth and oral infections. Having gum disease may lead to trouble controlling your blood sugar.

  • Nutrition for growth and development: Cavities, gum disease and tooth loss can cause pain and make it difficult to eat, which can lead to poor digestion, nutritional deficiencies that delay physical growth and cognitive development.

  • Infections: A buildup of harmful bacteria in the mouth can spread to surrounding tissues or even enter the bloodstream. This can cause infection in other parts of the body.

  • Pregnancy complications: Hormonal changes increase the risk of gum disease during pregnancy. Untreated gum disease during pregnancy can lead to premature birth or low birth weight. Once the baby is born, the cavity-causing germs in the mouth can be passed to the newborn through the mother’s saliva.

  • Poor mental health: Having poor oral health that leads to issues like tooth loss can negatively affect self-esteem and confidence, contributing to anxiety, depression and social withdrawal.

Community Water Fluoridation

Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in water that can help prevent tooth decay (cavities). Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children. It affects around one in three children in NYC. Tooth decay can be painful and interfere with eating, speaking, sleeping, self-esteem, and overall health. Adding fluoride to drinking water is scientifically proven to be safe and effective in preventing tooth decay and improving oral health.

The levels of fluoride naturally in water are often too low to prevent tooth decay. Small, safe amounts of fluoride are added to many public water systems. In NYC, the Department of Environmental Protection has added low levels of fluoride to our drinking water since 1966. The current amount of fluoride added to NYC water is 0.7 milligrams per liter. Fluoridated water lowers the risk of cavities and helps maintain good oral health.

Leading health organizations such as the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics support community water fluoridation as a safe and effective public health measure to prevent tooth decay.

Find a Dentist

The City offers several ways to find a dentist:

  • Call 311 and ask for help finding a low-cost dentist.
  • Find a low-cost dentist by borough:
NYC Health Map

Insurance Coverage

If you do not have health insurance or need help renewing your plan, visit the Health Department: Enrollment Counselors page to learn more about the services they provide and how to make an appointment. Call 311 if you need further assistance with dental insurance.

Find out if you qualify for Medicaid and other state programs on the New York State Medicaid page.

Additional Resources

More Information