Tooth Decay Problems Increasing Among Pre-Schoolers

A 26-month old child has an appointment with a dentist. This very young child has 12 cavities of 20 teeth, and 4 of these need to be pulled out. Shocking isn't it?

A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated that there is an alarming increase in dental concerns among children. An estimated 28% of US children ages 2 to 5 had a cavity in at least one baby tooth between 1999 and 2004. The National Center for Health Statistics claims that in 1998 to 1994, the estimate was only 24%. The good news that the recent studies show is that tooth decay in older children has decreased. Gum disease rate has also improved.

Many may have the impression that it is ok for these children to have dental problems since they do not have permanent teeth yet. This is based on wrong impressions. Those who are involved in recent studies say that even if baby teeth are going to fall out, if they are not healthy, they can still cause damage to permanent teeth.

The studies show that there is a need to visit the dentist even at an early age. Some parents tend to neglect this thinking that their children may still be too young anyway. Gone are the days when there was a notion that children may develop fear or trauma in going to the dentist. Still, some parents tend to neglect this important part in a growing child's life.

Experts assert that if a child has baby teeth that have decayed and are not treated, he or she would have decay with the permanent teeth as well. This is because the permanent teeth would come into an environment filled with bacteria. The positioning of the teeth would also be affected, and possibly even the child's bite.

So what's the culprit for these children's tooth decay? Several factors were mentioned. The first would be what parents are giving their children. Sweets is the number 1 source of cavity among young children. Taking food with a lot of preservatives is also a culprit. It has been observed that parents tend to allow "snacking on demand". Parents are bringing their children to different events and activities, that they let the children snack often. What the kids eat bring tooth decay, especially when parents do not impose stricter rules on brushing and flossing.

Furthermore, what parents don't give their children is also a source of cavity: tap water. Most children now are into sodas, sugary juices, and bottled water. Much of these drinks are not treated with fluoride. Tap water is treated with fluoride and this plays a very important role in strengthening teeth. The dentists warn, however, that parents should not give fluoride supplements without the consultation with the dentist or the child's pediatrician. Too much fluoride can also be dangerous.

According to experts, there parents should be stricter in reminding their children about the importance of oral and dental hygiene. Brushing three times a day should be reminded, together with flossing. Eating of healthier foods is also necessary. Doing this does not have a positive effect on teeth only, but on the over all health of a person.

Also, parents should realize that regular visits to the dentist is a priority. When parents do not give a high priority to dental health, then children would also not realize its importance.