Caries and sweets in children

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases that affects millions of children worldwide. Contrary to popular belief, milk teeth are also very important in the general health of a child, because these teeth not only play an essential role in nutrition and speech, but are considered natural substitutes for the growth of permanent teeth in the future. In recent years, several studies have shown that caries and sweetness in children have a direct and predictable relationship. Frequent consumption of sugary substances, sweet drinks and processed foods, along with not observing oral hygiene, creates an acidic environment in the mouth and, as a result, begins to destroy tooth enamel.

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Definition of tooth decay and its relationship with sweets in children

Dental caries is an infectious disease caused by oral bacteria, especially Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus. These microorganisms produce acid by consuming simple sugars found in sweets and processed foods. The acid produced in direct contact with the tooth surface causes demineralization (reduction of tooth enamel minerals). If this process is repeated, it will eventually lead to the destruction of the tooth structure, the creation of stains, cavities and even severe pain.

In other words, decay and sweetness in children are two inseparable concepts. The more times the tooth comes into contact with sugar, the more likely it is to decay; Even if the amount of sweets is small.

The main causes of caries caused by the consumption of sweets

Caries in children is the result of a combination of several factors:

1. Frequent consumption of sugary substances

Simple sugars such as sucrose, fructose and glucose are the main food of oral bacteria. When a child consumes sweets, biscuits or sugary drinks several times a day, the oral environment remains constantly acidic. This state causes continuous analysis of tooth enamel.

2. Non-observance of oral hygiene

Many children do not brush their teeth after eating sweets or do not know the correct way to brush their teeth. Accumulation of microbial plaque on the teeth causes sugar to last and acidity to continue.

3. Reduction of oral saliva

Saliva plays an important role in washing food and neutralizing acid. Children who have little saliva due to medication, dehydration, or mouth breathing are more susceptible to caries.

4. Genetics and characteristics of tooth enamel

Some children genetically have thinner enamel or their teeth are more susceptible to damage. In these children, even less sugar consumption can cause caries.

5. Using milk bottles containing sweet liquids

The term "baby bottle rot" is used for babies who sleep at night with a bottle containing milk or juice. The sweet liquid collects in the mouth and keeps the bacteria active.

Early and advanced symptoms of tooth decay in children

Recognizing the signs of caries and sweets in children in time is important to prevent permanent damage.

Primary symptoms

• Creating chalky white spots on the teeth

• enamel strengthening tooth and prevents acid penetration to the underlying layers. This method is usually performed in a dental office.

  🔹 sealant or fissure sealant

  Covering the deep grooves of the chewing surface of the molars with resin materials to prevent the accumulation of bacteria.

  🔹 Xylitol

  Xylitol is a natural sweetener that not only prevents decay, but also reduces the growth of harmful bacteria.

  🔹 modification of eating behavior

  Advice to parents to create good eating habits in children, such as eating sweets only after meals, not between meals.

  🔹 laser therapy

  In some cases of surface decay, laser is used to remove the damaged tissue and disinfect the tooth.

  Exercises and good habits for children's oral health

  

  • Video tutorial on the correct way to brush your teeth

  • Using educational applications and care games

  • Washing the mouth with water after every sweet meal

  • Using the reward table to encourage the child to observe hygiene

  • Replacing sweet drinks with plain water or milk

  The relationship between caries and the general health of the child's body

  Research has shown that

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