Tooth Decay in Children
Causes and solutions to the growing problem of tooth decay amongst children in the UK.
Tooth decay in simple terms
The term tooth decay is used in dentistry to explain bacterial infections within the teeth and gums.
When the outer protective shell of the tooth which we know as the enamel is worn away or damaged by sudden impact, the next layer of tooth protection is exposed, the dentine layer is softer and can be infected by bacteria eventually leading to holes in the teeth called dental caries or cavities as they are more commonly known.
If the cavities are then left untreated, they will widen, grow, become more infected, and the infection can then begin to spread, ultimately reaching areas deep in the tooth root causing significant issues and potential lasting or permanent damage to the inner nerves.
What causes tooth decay in a child?
For children specifically, the greatest threats that lead to tooth decay are sudden impact injury, or high amounts of sugar or starch in their diet. This is then magnified by unmonitored or poor oral hygiene.
Children inherently will have bumps and collisions as a natural part of growing up through games and sports and there is little we can do to protect against each circumstance.
There is however, a great deal that we as adults can do to better our children's dietary consumption. And this should begin with a critical look at how much sugar and starch they consume.
There are of course the more obvious food groups that contain significant sugar levels, such as energy drinks and colas, as well as sweets, cakes and so on. Cutting down on these sugar-based snacks and drinks should be number one on the list for any parents looking to improve their child's dental health.
Not so well known are the other less obvious sugar and starch-based everyday food items such as milk, bread, cereals and raisins to name just a few. Indeed many of our common foods these days contain added sugars or starches to make them taste better or last longer on the shelves.
This article will serve to point out some of these foods but it is also important to do a little of your own research and read food labels to identify the right health choices for our children and indeed ourselves.
How is Tooth Decay caused by food?
Many of today's foods and drinks will leave invisible traces of starch and sugar on the teeth and in the mouth. These then mix with the bacteria within saliva to form acids, which in turn will begin to form the sticky substance known as dental plaque.
If plaque is not frequently removed with regular and thorough brushing it will quickly harden into what we know as tartar which is strong enough to begin to break down the enamel of the tooth.
Tell-tale signs to watch for:
White spots beginning to appear on the teeth: This is a sign of the enamel breaking down, exposing the whiter-coloured dentine underneath.
Sensitivity, reddening, bleeding or pain: These are often the first signs of a worsening dental issue.
Brown marks or patches on the teeth: Brown on the teeth may be a sign that a cavity has started to form.
Black areas of the tooth or gums: This is a clear indication of a worsening cavity.
Important to note:
Tooth Decay can worsen very quickly, and it is of paramount importance that you contact your dentist should you see any of these signs.
How a dentist assesses tooth decay:
Your dental physician will first take the following steps.
Reviewing the complete physical and dental history of your child.
Performing a full oral examination.
Taking any required dental X-rays.
A comprehensive report will then be prepared outlining the next steps and any at-home measures you can take to assist prior to treatment.
Dental healthcare for younger children:
Begin brushing your child's teeth as soon as the first tooth emerges. Ensure to brush the teeth, tongue and all gum areas for a total of around 2 minutes twice per day, with a fluoride-based toothpaste.
Before the age of 3, use only a very small amount of toothpaste, and gradually increase from then onwards.
From the age of 2, flossing should be introduced into a daily oral health routine.
Try not to share cutlery or anything else that may transfer any bacteria that your mouth contains.
When filling your child's bedtime bottle, only use water! Many juices and formulas contain hidden bacteria-building sugars.
Ask your dentist if your child needs a fluoride supplement, this is of special importance in areas with a low fluoride supply.
Another less common factor is if your child has a naturally low saliva level, this can also enhance the likelihood of dental issues and decay.
Brushing Solo:
Once your child is brushing their own teeth, take care to ensure all the above steps are followed and fully monitored until your child is disciplined enough and fully capable of performing their own dental health routine.
Who we are:
Life Dental and Wellbeing is an established city-centre practice in the heart of Exeter.
We have been serving the Exeter community for 11 years and have seen our fledgling practice grow into a thriving, successful and even award-winning business.
We are privileged to have on our books some of the very finest physicians who approach their work with impressive diligence and the highest levels of customer care.
Should you have any queries on the above article, or indeed wish to know more about what we do, please call our reception team within business hours to request further information.
Or check out our other articles on this website.
Wishing you a lifetime of excellent oral health.
