More than one in ten three-year-olds have tooth decay!

Public Health England researchers have checked the teeth of nearly 54,000 children in nurseries, children’s centres and playgroups. Disturbingly they found that 12% of these young children had evidence of tooth decay with an average of three teeth that were decayed, missing or filled!The research also showed that some children had a particular type of decay known as ‘early childhood caries’. This affects the upper front teeth and spreads quickly to other teeth. As dentists, we at Carisbrook Dental know that this is directly linked to the consumption of sugary drinks in baby bottles and sipping cups.Public Health England has said, and we totally agree, that parents should give their children sugary foods and drinks in smaller quantities and less often. We would also urge parents not to add sugar to weaning foods or drinks. In addition, parents should also start to brush their children’s teeth as soon as the front tooth appears. They should also supervise their children’s brushing until they reach the age of at least seven or eight.You can read more about the causes and effects of tooth decay here on our website. We know, however, that it is an entirely preventable disease that can be very painful and even result in a child having to have teeth removed under general anaesthetic, which is not only stressful for both child and parents, but can be potentially dangerous.At Carisbrook Dental we place a great deal of emphasis on the care of young children’s teeth and if you go to our Children’s Page you’ll see that we provide lots of sound advice, plus hints and tips about brushing and oral hygiene for young people. Can we also emphasise that it is never too soon to introduce your child to the dentist. Ideally no later than 18-months, because even at that young age we can identify and treat tooth decay, spot potential problems and of course it also allows the child to become accustomed to visiting the dentist without fear or trepidation. Whilst you’re at our clinic we can also advise on the correct procedures for teeth brushing and the prevention of decay and can advise you if we think that teeth may not be developing correctly and may require the services of one of our Orthodontists.Why not contact us to arrange an appointment for your child? It could help to prevent tooth decay and will give you the peace of mind you’re looking for.