Oral health is important across the life span beginning with perinatal oral health, as poor oral health has been linked to poor birth outcomes and tooth decay can be passed on to the newborn. Infants and toddlers are especially vulnerable to tooth decay due to feeding habits and poor oral hygiene. As a child grows into adolescence, new and emerging issues arise that can impact oral health including tobacco use and vaping as well as oral cancers from the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV vaccination is cancer prevention!
Last Updated: February 9, 2026