A story published March 6 in The New York Times indicated preschoolers at all income levels are experiencing a dramatic increase in cavities. The level of decay is so severe that dentists often recommend using general anesthesia because young children are unlikely to be able to tolerate such extensive procedures while they are awake.
The center for Disease Control and Prevention noted an increase for the first time in 40 years, in the number of preschoolers with cavities in a study five years ago.
The cost for parents for dental restoration under general anesthesia for a child ranges from $2000 to $5000 or more, depending on insurance coverage and the amount of work.