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Pediatric services are more important than if a recent article published by the New York Times is any indication. The article reports that tooth decay is on the upswing among children as young as 2-years-old.
How bad had the problem become? Some dentists have treated preschool children with as many as 10 cavities! These cases can be so severe that dentists have little other recourse than to utilize anesthesia to sedate their young patients – expecting them to patiently sit through such extensive procedures is rather unrealistic.
Dental extractions occasionally become necessary in cases of overwhelming tooth decay. Decay festering in the mouth for extended periods of time can trigger more serious oral health issues, despite these teeth inevitably falling out on their own accord.
The LA Times similarly reports that as much as 50% of children will experience a form of tooth decay by the time they’re 5-years-old. Even more troublesome, oral infection is recognized as the number one chronic disease among kids.
The catalyst behind this sharp decay incline likely won’t surprise many parents – dentists are primarily pointing the finger at junk food like sweet snacks and sugary juices. They also underscore the importance of fortifying teeth, serving children fluoridated water in place of commonplace bottled water.
Experts advocate children should secure pediatric services by their 1st birthday. Although teeth are only beginning to develop during this period, early appointments are essential to assess cavity risk and prevent tooth decay.
Parents, now is the time to take action! Help your children develop good brushing habits early in life and set them up for a lifetime of exceptional oral health. Experts remind parents that instilling these habits in very young children is difficult, but a necessary evil when it comes to warding off decay.
