ORDER OF COUNCILLOR JOHN M. TOBIN, JR

WHEREAS: February was “Dental Awareness Month”; and

WHEREAS: According to the Massachusetts Coalition for Oral Health, children in Boston have poorer oral health than the state-wide average; and

WHEREAS: Poor oral health affects children from low-income and minority household disproportionately; with 25% of children experiencing 80% of all dental decay; and

WHEREAS: Significant tooth decay, pain, or infection can inhibit learning, speech, and eating, leading to problems in school, negative self-image, and poor nutrition; and

WHEREAS: The consequences of poor oral heath can be serious, costly, and permanent; and

WHEREAS: Oral infections and diseases are almost wholly preventable, and prevention measures can be simple and cost effective; Therefore Be It

ORDERED: That the appropriate committee of the Boston City Council conduct a hearing on children’s oral health in the City of Boston

Filed in City Council: March 1, 2006