World Oral Health Day: Dentist says infants more prone to get dental caries, check ways to prevent

Oral health is often ignored when it comes to overall healthcare. In India, over 95 per cent of Indian adults have dental caries and over 50 per cent of adults have periodontal diseases, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Another health survey conducted in India revealed that only 45 per cent said Indians brush their teeth twice every day as compared to 78 to 83 per cent estimated in China, Colombia, Italy and Japan.

As per some studies, oral diseases affect about 3.5 billion people across the globe. Oral health or diseases remain the major threat and health burden in the world. On the occasion of Oral Health Day celebrated on March 20 every year, let’s not neglect the importance of oral health and hygiene.

Oral health care must start from childhood as our teeth shape accordingly from our infant age. As well as children are the ones who are more prone to dental health issues as compared to adults. In conversation with News9, Dr Prabhavathi H B, Senior Consultant Pediatric Dentist at Kinder Hospital, “An infant oral health indicates the maintenance and care of a baby’s oral cavity, this includes having a regular check on the teeth development and making sure that oral hygiene practices from an early age.

Importance of infant oral health care

According to Dr Prabhavathi, “Infant oral care plays a vital role in the child’s overall growth and well-being. If oral health is neglected then it may lead to problems like dental caries, pain, and infections and may impact the overall quality of life.

Causes for Tooth Decay in Babies

Tooth delay is a common problem in babies which can be caused due to multiple factors ranging from incorrect oral hygiene practices, regular consumption of sugary foods, drinks and nocturnal breastfeeding after the sign of the first primary tooth.

Solutions for Baby Tooth Decay

If a baby develops tooth decay, solutions include seeking prompt dental treatment, such as fluoride varnish application, counselling on dietary habits and oral hygiene practices, and addressing any underlying causes contributing to tooth decay.