March 6 (iVillage Total Health) -- The death of a 12-year-old Maryland boy who died last month of complications from an untreated cavity should be a "wake-up call" to the country about basic preventive dental care for all children, the nation's two top dental associations said.

According to news reports, Deamonte Driver died Feb. 25 after bacteria from untreated tooth decay traveled through his bloodstream and into his brain. Numerous studies have shown that bacteria in plaque may cause cardiovascular problems, including heart disease and atherosclerosis. The boy's family reportedly did not have health insurance and could not get dental care.

"It is a national disgrace that in 21st Century America, millions of children don't have access to basic preventive and restorative dental care," according to a press release issued by the American Dental Association (ADA). "Thousands of these kids suffer from profound dental disease -- they can't eat or sleep properly, can't pay attention in school because they're suffering from chronic infections and the resulting constant pain that could have been prevented and easily relieved through treatment."

Tooth decay strikes people of all ages, but is particularly prevalent in children. It is the single most common condition in children ages 5 to 17 years and affects 59 percent of children in this age bracket, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The ADA recommends brushing at least twice daily and flossing at least once a day as the best weapon against tooth decay.

In addition, children should have their first pediatric dental checkup by their first birthday and begin brushing by age 2. Professional cleaning at least twice a year in a dentist's office is also recommended. Experts say keeping regular checkups improves the chances of catching tooth decay and other dental or oral disorders early -- when they are both easier and less costly to fix.

"Dental diseases grow progressively worse without treatment, which influences overall health," Dr. Paul Bussman, a spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry, said in a press release. He and the ADA cited a 2000 U.S. Surgeon General's Report on the oral health of the nation that called untreated oral disease a "silent epidemic" in the United States. The report concluded that good oral health and good general health are inseparable.

Bussman added: "Most oral health problems can be prevented. Regular dental examinations, oral health education and primary disease prevention can dramatically reduce the burden of dental disease in most patients."

Bussman urged anyone who does not have access to affordable dental care for their children to contact their State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at http://www.insurekidsnow.gov/. Medicaid coverage may be available to families who qualify through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services .

Local dental schools, clinics and dental societies may also offer assistance.

Copyright 2007 iVillage Total Health.