LOOKING AFTER YOUR CHILD'S DENTAL HEALTH

With the increase of sugary foods, tooth decay is on the rise amongst kids in this region. So what can you do to look after your child's dental health?

Although figures are not available for the UAE or the Middle East, UK healthcare professionals have reported an "oral health crisis" in children. This crisis has seen over 40,000 children put under general anaesthetic in hospital to have teeth extracted in recent years. According to health experts, the 17% increase in tooth extractions in hospitals is attributable to tooth decay caused by sugar in children's diets.

Tooth decay is the breakdown, or destruction, of tooth enamel. Enamel is the hard, outer surface of a tooth. Tooth decay can lead to cavities (also called caries), which are holes in the teeth that bacteria can penetrate. So what causes tooth decay in a child? Tooth decay is caused by bacteria, amongst other things. It can happen when foods containing sugars, starches, and other carbohydrates are left on the teeth.

These foods include:

✓ Milk

✓ Soda

✓ Raisins

✓ Sweets

✓ Cake

✓ Fruit juices

✓ Cereals

✓ Bread

Bacteria that normally live in the mouth react with these foods, resulting in the production of acids. The combination of bacteria, food, acid, and saliva forms a substance called *plaque' that sticks to the teeth. Over time, the acids made by the bacteria eat away at the tooth enamel, causing cavities.

Children at risk of tooth decay

All children have bacteria in their mouth, so they are all at risk of tooth decay. But the following may increase your child's risk:

✓ High levels of the bacteria that cause cavities

✓ A diet high in sugars and starches