Oral diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are inflammation of the gums due to lack of brushing and flossing, irregular dental cleanings, tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, poor dietary choices, diabetes and medications that reduce saliva production. Oral diseases cause the gums to recede from the tooth and lead to tooth decay. Mexican Americans aged 35-44 years experience untreated tooth decay nearly twice as much as white, non-Hispanics. The greatest disparity among children aged 2-8 is seen in Mexican Americans. While 47.2% of adults have some form of periodontal disease, the greatest amount is among Mexican Americans. In regards to oral cancer, Mexican Americans actually have lower rates compared to non-Hispanics mostly because
