subject: Tips Every Dentist Will Suggest To Prevent Dental Diseases Among Children [print this page] Early childhood tooth decay, the most common disease during childhood, can take a heavy toll on children. This disease, characterized by severe decay in the teeth of infants or young children, can affect their development, school performance and behavior. A Primer for your Child's Baby Teeth and Care If your child is between the ages of 4 to 7 months then they probably have their first tooth already. Dentist can help you to come through this worrying time. This is done not only by giving advice on what to do, but also, what not to do. There is no point trying some dentistry of your own at home, as this will only lead to further complications. By following the advice of a Dentist, you can ensure that your tooth pain is treated and better in no time at all.
According to 2007 report by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the condition - also known as baby bottle caries, or baby bottle tooth decay - affects one in every five 3-year-olds. And this number increases to 40 percent by the time children start kindergarten.
We are especially equipped to provide dental care to children. We take delight in going that extra mile to make the visit to the website and find a dentist for your child. Early childhood tooth decay is caused by a very common bacteria infection that is often transmitted to the child from the mother or other primary caretaker. Mothers with untreated dental disease can pass it on to their children. The condition can lead to pain, infection and tooth loss. The child will have difficulty eating or speaking, not to mention a poor appearance. It can distract a child, making him unable to concentrate on school work and learning. The problem is compounded if poor oral health leads to staying away from school, as absenteeism clearly contributes to failure in school.
When the child's teeth are exposed to sugars in milk, formula, fruit juice, and other sugary drinks. The sugars combine with bacteria in the mouth and produce acids. The bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine to form a sticky substance, called plaque, which builds up on the teeth. The bacteria and plaque feed on sugars and produce waste products such as lactic acids, and these are what cause tooth decay. If plaque is not removed regularly, the tooth's enamel and dentin will continue to get de-mineralized and tooth decay will continue to flourish.
Untreated caries may lead to early loss of the baby teeth (primary teeth). It can affect the growing and maturation of the permanent teeth, because the primary molars remain until the children reach ages 10 to If the primary teeth are decayed or damaged in some way, the new set will not grow properly.
Often, the decay in baby teeth will lead to decay in the adult teeth, and the consequences will continue well into adulthood, according to statements by Dr. Joel Berg, chairman of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Washington; Dental Director at Seattle Childrens Hospital and Cindi Sherwood, DDS, the Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson.
Poor dental health can affect speech, articulation, growth and food habits. In extreme cases, early childhood caries can also lead to widespread tooth decay, infection, pain, abscesses, chewing problems, malnutrition and gastrointestinal disorders. The condition has also been linked to low self-esteem in children.The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that parents bring their child for the first dental visit about six months after the appearance of the first tooth, which occurs around 12 months of age.
Early childhood caries is a preventable disease. The three key steps to ensuring good dental health in children are:
* Diet - Cutting back on sugary snacks and drinks like fruit juices or soft drinks. It is best to avoid putting the child to bed with a bottle.
* Hygiene - Teaching young children the habit of caring for their teeth is essential. Your dentist can offer helpful suggestions on how to achieve this. Children should be taught to brush at least twice a day, after breakfast and before bedtime, and after eating sticky or sweet food.
* Fluoride - Caries takes months or even years in the making. Likely the most proven and effective method of prevention is the regular use of fluoride. Parents need to ensure the childs teeth are receiving a sufficient amount by using fluoride toothpaste. Children with the right amount of fluoride tend to face a lesser risk of cavities.
Please consult your dentist for more details & specific medications for maintaining good dental health. Here is a free online tool to find a dentist in your neighborhood: http://www.freedentistfinder.com
by: Mark G
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