Cavities in Children On The Rise For First Time in 40 Years

By on October 25, 2012

Never has it been easier to alter your appearance than it is today. Getting your nose repaired or taking years off of your skin is as easy as going to see a cosmetic surgeon, but not all changes to your looks require going under the knife. You can visit a San Antonio dental professional and have a whole new smile. Unfortunately, it would seem despite such emphasis in our society on appearances, people are not taking so much pride with regards to their dental health.

Sweet Tooth or Tooth Decay?

Recently the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that for the first time in 40 years, cavities are on the rise in children. For nearly four decades this country has seen a steady decline in the number of children getting cavities, but that is all changing, according to a report on Cleveland.com. The numbers are quite staggering as dentists across the country are reporting that in preschoolers they are seeing many come in with six to 10 cavities. This places tooth decay above asthma for the most prominent chronic disease in children.

How To Avoid Cavities

There are simple ways to decrease your chances of developing cavities:

1. Brush, brush, brush. You would think it would go without saying but many people do not brush their teeth adequately or often enough. Be sure to brush after every meal or, at the very least, when you wake up and before you go to bed.

2. Floss is your friend. Cavities can also occur in-between your teeth where food gets stuck. Flossing with decrease your chance of cavities and other dental issues.

3. Watch what you eat. Be aware of the foods and drinks you are consuming. Foods and drinks with a lot of sugar, citric acid, or other acids are corrosive to your teeth and make you more vulnerable to developing cavities.

In addition to being proactive at home, be sure to visit a dentist every six months to keep your smile sparkling and most importantly healthy.

It’s Not Just the Little Kids

As any San Antonio dental expert would tell you, trends in dental hygiene are seen across many age groups. The Cleveland.com report explained that one dental professional also noted a significant increase in cavities for high school and college ages patients as well. What is causing this epidemic of unhealthy teeth—energy and sports drinks. The article explained that energy drinks are increasingly popular, but are also corrosive with sugar and acid. This combination will wreak havoc on your teeth, no matter your age.

Patrick Whalen is a part of an elite team of writers who have contributed to hundreds of blogs and news sites. Follow him @2patwhalen.

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