Children’s Oral Health Linked to Mom’s Well-being

Children’s Oral Health Linked to Mom’s Well-being

Teaching children to brush and floss may not be all that’s needed to ensure their dental health. A 2012 study suggests that oral health at age 14 is directly related to a primary caregiver’s emotional health, knowledge and education level.

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University’s School of Dental Health followed a group of 224 children, born with both normal and low birth weights. They tracked the children throughout the years, examining the amount of tooth decay and missing teeth they had by age 14. They also gave the children’s mothers (the primary caregiver in all cases) surveys to track dental visits and access to dental care and insurance, sealants, fluoride treatments and sugar consumption. According to the study, published in the Journal of Dental Research, regardless of all these factors (which obviously appear likely to affect dental health), having healthy teeth had less to do with the dental care and more to do with the mother’s overall emotional state and knowledge about nutrition and health.

It is important to remember that this is one small study and that it simply suggests a link, not an explanation. Since three factors (emotional health, educational level and knowledge) played into the findings, it’s hard to know which one really confers the most benefit. What we can take away from this research is that oral health, and most likely health in general, is affected by a child’s environment.

What can parents do with this knowledge? There is no point in dwelling on the past, and there is certainly no reason to blame yourself if your child has had dental problems. But perhaps adults can learn that staying positive and conscientious about taking care of ourselves has a direct impact on our offspring.

Many parents worry so much about their children that they forget to pay attention to their own well-being. This research could be used to justify putting your own happiness and health at the top of your priority list to set a good example for your children—and perhaps give them an extra edge in protecting their oral health in the future.

If you have questions regarding your child's oral heath, click here to schedule an appointment at KiDDS Dental. Or give us a call at (509)-891-7070.

Childhood Oral Health Brings Lifetime Benefits

Childhood Oral Health Brings Lifetime Benefits

Want to give your children a great advantage in life? Then be sure they receive regular dental care and develop good oral habits from a young age. Dental problems in early childhood can negatively affect oral and general health in later years, as well as the quality of life of the children and family. Oral health is a major factor in overall health and well-being.

Experts say that children with early dental decay are at greater risk for cavities, gum disease, malocclusion and even general health problems. Poor oral health can have an impact on a child’s ability to chew properly, resulting in limited food choices and affecting his or her nutritional level. And limited food choices can contribute to excess weight and obesity.

Furthermore, children whose teeth affect their appearance or speech may feel embarrassed and avoid social interactions or classroom participation, establishing a negative pattern that could continue into the future. Studies show that children and adolescents who suffer from dental pain often perform poorly in school. They are absent more frequently and have difficulty concentrating when they are in the classroom, seriously affecting their grades and influencing future opportunities for college and career.

Starting your child early on the road to good oral health can lead to a happier, healthier individual, saving the family the stress and cost of extensive treatment later. Here are some things you can do:

• Establish a relationship with us by the time your child’s first tooth erupts. Then bring your child in for checkups twice a year.
• Encourage good oral hygiene. Teach your child effective brushing techniques and have him or her brush at least twice a day. Using toothpaste that contains fluoride can also help reduce decay.
• Watch your child’s diet. Sugary drinks and other sweets that children enjoy encourage decay. So can frequent snacking, which causes sugars to remain on the teeth and cause damage. Be sure your child eats a healthy, balanced diet.

The payoff for such dental diligence on the part of you and your child? A healthy mouth that can lead to a lifetime of feeling and performing better—academically, socially and professionally.

Call us at KiDDS Dental to schedule an appointment today! (509)-891-7070.