Understanding How Tooth Decay Affects Your Teeth

Tooth decay in kids is on the rise, according to the largest government study of the nation’s dental health in more than 25 years, The staggering statistics are just that–staggering. One would think that currently, with the vast information at our fingertips, and better tools and technology, tooth decay would be declining. So, what exactly is going on with kids’ teeth these days? Read on to learn more about tooth decay in kids and, more specifically, how to treat it and prevent it.

Tooth Decay in Kids by the Numbers

According to a recent study, one-third of preschoolers have never seen a dentist and most caregivers believe children will not see a real benefit of visiting the dentist before they are three years old. But numbers just do not lie. According to the CDC, approximately 20 percent of children between the ages of 5-11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth and 13 percent of adolescents between the ages of 12-19 have at least one decayed tooth.

Why the Rise in Tooth Decay?

The reasons tooth decay in kids is on the rise stems from a variety of factors. Most experts agree that some of the main reasons for the increase include:

• Better detection tools discovering more tooth decay than before.
• A decline in drinking tap water, which is fortified with fluoride–which is especially important in stopping and preventing dental disease.
• Too much sugar and too little dental care.

The fact remains that we must be vigilant in our fight against tooth decay. Symptoms of tooth decay often do not become noticeable until the tooth decay is very advanced and causes pain or sensitivity. By this point, fillings, root canals, or tooth extraction become the only options. Stay ahead of tooth decay by exercising habits for prevention daily in your family!

Why is Early Childhood Tooth Decay Troublesome?

Tooth decay at an early age can lead to big complications in dental health later in life. Furthermore, badly decayed baby teeth can result in premature baby teeth tooth loss. This is problematic on multiple levels because of all baby teeth are tasked to do. Baby teeth are space holders for permanent teeth, leading to a balanced, functional smile. They also aid in digestion, speech development, and a strong self-confidence factor in kids.

Prevent early childhood tooth decay by educating yourself with the facts and then making goals for improvements in your home. Li’l Sunshine Smiles Dentistry  is there with you every step of the way! Contact us today at (813) 576-0200 to make an appointment for a visit!

Prevent Tooth Decay in Kids with These Tips

The good news about tooth decay is it IS preventable. Parents who actively engage in the following good oral health strategies can protect their children from the dangers of tooth decay:

• Apply Dental Sealants.
• Reduce the quantity of sugar.
• Visit the dentist at least twice a year.
• Drink more tap water and/or ask for an in-office fluoride treatment for your child.
• Eat nutritious fruits, and vegetables to keep teeth and bones strong.
• Educate, educate, educate.
• Develop a habit of good oral care in your home.
• Establish a dental home early, by the first year of age or at the eruption of your child’s first tooth.

Li’l Sunshine Smiles Dentistry supports parents in their goals for good oral health in their homes. Contact us today at (813) 576-0200 to make an appointment for a visit!