Over the years, the increase in childhood obesity, diabetes, and other health issues has increased drastically. In addition, dental health and oral hygiene problems are on the rise, and tooth decay can often signal a more serious health issue. While not all tooth-related troubles are linked to medical problems, it is important to look at the underlying factors that contribute to decay and other health risks.
While most babies can start eating solid foods at about four and a half months, it’s not likely that they will be fed sugar-filled snacks. However, it’s not uncommon to reward a child with a candy or sugary juice box. These small treats can then lead to early decay in the child’s teeth, which in turn can produce even more problems as the teeth develop. Through various studies, including one conducted by U.S. and Australian researchers, dentists are able to provide more useful information and documentation to parents of infants and young children. These studies can help us better-determine which technique will yield the best results.
The joint study reported that some children’s oral hygiene was so poor that they were having teeth removed at a very young age. It was also advised that children be breastfed “exclusively to the age of six months and then introduce solid foods while continuing to breastfeed or to start formula. Cow’s milk could be given from the age of one.” Doing so may help reduce the instances of tooth decay starting from such a young age.
If you are concerned about the well-being of your child’s teeth and overall health, please feel free to schedule an appointment at my practice. As a caring dentist and orthodontist, I am dedicated to your child’s dental health.