Mission Statement
Tooth decay is the Number One childhood disease in America. Between ages two and five, IT’S INCREASING!! Treatment capacity will be overwhelmed!
This is the SOCIETAL HEALTH PROBLEM that we are attacking!
Our Mission Is:
Reduce tooth decay in families for a lifetime. Achieving this goal begins at birth by introducing innovative educational materials along with providing a new generation of safe, effective, and consumer-friendly dental health products to those who cannot afford them. Our focus is underserved families especially those with children who have Autism Spectrum Disorder or Down Syndrome. We are willing to support and fight for these families and intend to earn their trust. We will partner with any qualified organization having the same goals and objectives.
The Branam Foundation’s mission extends well beyond reducing tooth decay in young children and their families. Our ongoing investigation and scientific research have revealed additional health benefits from the daily use of xylitol at home.
Globally, the countries with the lowest pre-term birth rates — averaging just 5% — include the Scandinavian nations, Germany, and the United Kingdom. These countries share three key factors:
· Each has a stated public health policy supporting the benefits of regular xylitol use.
· Each ranks among the lowest worldwide in tooth decay rates.
· Each provides universal national healthcare.
In contrast, the United States has a pre-term birth rate of 10%. The U.S. has no national policy recognizing the dental and systemic health benefits of xylitol, ranks ninth worldwide in tooth decay rates, and lacks a universal healthcare system.
The Branam Foundation’s distribution of Branam Bundles is designed to address these disparities. By providing access to xylitol-based products and education, especially for underserved families, we target not only the prevention of tooth decay but also broader improvements in public health outcomes.
Statement from Dr. Stephen Branam,
For more than 50 years, I have practiced pediatric dentistry in Ohio. In my daily work, I ask every parent whether they use my toothpaste or tooth gel at home. The typical answer is yes. But when the answer is no, the overwhelming response is: “I can’t afford it,” or “I don’t have the money.”
Approximately 65% of my patients are covered by Medicaid. This population also suffers the highest rates of tooth decay. The conclusion is unavoidable: the families who most urgently need preventive products are the least able to afford them. Their children often receive restorative treatment at no out-of-pocket cost, but they do not receive prevention. Most dentists fail to explain the importance of using preventive products at home every day.
The result is predictable. These children return to the dental office only when a cavity appears or pain sets in. Because the growth of our population exceeds the graduation rate of new dental professionals, the burden of disease is outpacing the availability of surgical treatment. This imbalance is the reason the Branam Foundation was created.
The mainstream treatment-only dental model has not lowered the incidence of tooth decay in America’s youngest children. Today, childhood tooth decay is at epidemic levels—and it will continue unless a preventive model is widely implemented.
The Branam Foundation exists to meet this urgent need. We have the products, educational materials, expertise, and energy to benefit underserved families for years to come. Our mission is simple: to give prevention to those who need it most, but can afford it least.
Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Stephen Branam
Founder, The Branam Foundation