Association of Dental Caries and Blood Lead Levels

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Abstract
Despite the dramatic decline in dental caries in the US population following the widespread practice of fluoridation of public water supplies,1 tooth decay remains a major public health problem. By age 17 years, 84% of US adolescents have experienced tooth decay in their permanent teeth—on average, involving 8 tooth surfaces.2 The annual treatment costs for dental caries in the United States are estimated to be at least $4.5 billion.3 If left untreated, tooth decay can result in substantial morbidity due to pain, dysfunction, and poor appearance. Although most children experience minimal levels of decay, about 25% of children account for 80% of all decayed surfaces observed in the population.4 Individuals who are impoverished experience a disproportionately high burden of dental caries.5 Unfortunately, factors responsible for this disparity in caries have remained elusive.