Tooth decay (dental caries) is a major problem for kids worldwide. Not only can it cause painful mouth conditions, but it impacts other areas of a kid’s life, too. Let’s examine five terrifying facts that every parent needs to know about childhood tooth decay.
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- Childhood tooth decay is more common than early childhood obesity, asthma and diabetes.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease. In fact, AAPD reports that childhood tooth decay is four times more common than early childhood obesity, five times more common than asthma and 20 times more common than diabetes.
- Untreated tooth decay can be life-threatening.
Untreated tooth decay has been linked to pain and infections that interfere with a child’s ability to eat, speak, play and learn, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports. Additionally, some studies indicate that there may be a direct correlation between untreated tooth decay and heart disease, stroke, pulmonary disease and other life-threatening conditions.
- Tooth decay affects children of all ages.
Dental caries are present in 21% of children between the ages of 2 and 5 and 51% of children between the ages of 6 and 11. The CDC also notes that untreated tooth decay is present in 9% of children between the ages of 2 and 5 and 15% of children between the ages of 6 and 11.
- Both children and teens are susceptible to tooth decay.
CDC indicates 37% of U.S. children aged 2 to 8 experience tooth decay in their primary teeth, and 58% of U.S. teenagers currently have or have had tooth decay.
- Tooth decay can negatively affect a child’s performance at school.
The Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors (ASTDD) reports 51 million school hours are lost annually due to tooth decay or other dental-related illnesses. Research also indicates kids with poor oral health are more likely than others to experience dental pain, miss school and perform poorly in school.
The Super Dentists is one of the top-rated pediatric dental practices in San Diego. We treat childhood tooth decay, cavities and other oral health issues. To find out more, please contact us today at 1 (855) GO SUPER.
