Which ethnicity has among the highest rates of dental caries in children?

• A. American Indian/Alaska Native
• B. Hispanic
• C. African American
• D. Asian

Answer: (A)

Caries in children is strongly shaped by social and environmental factors such as access to dental care, fluoride exposure, and socioeconomic conditions. American Indian/Alaska Native children have among the highest rates of dental caries in the pediatric population. This reflects long-standing disparities, including limited access to preventive and restorative services, variations in community water fluoridation, geographic isolation in some communities, and dietary and cultural factors that influence caries risk. While other groups like Hispanic and African American children also experience higher rates than some populations, the data consistently show that American Indian/Alaska Native children stand among the highest. Understanding these disparities helps emphasize the need for targeted prevention and improved access to care for these communities.