Four things to know:
- The state’s Lafayette County has a population of 16,715 people and one dentist, while Marquette County has a population of 15,574 people and two full-time dentists. Both counties qualify as health professional shortage areas, which means they have fewer than one dentist per 5,000 people.
- The shortage of dentists means manh residents travel more than an hour to receive care. Some also have trouble paying for services.
- The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is trying to relieve shortage areas by focusing on preventive care in kids.
- Marquette County offers free water fluoride treatment to residents in need.
