As a preschool owner, I have been fortunate enough to witness the delightful growth and development of countless children over the years. However, recent trends have left me stunned and concerned. It’s no secret that dental health plays a significant role in a child’s overall well-being but what I never anticipated was the sight of children as young as three years old needing root canal treatment. While researching on the internet I came upon a nmber of factors contributing to such an unexpected turn of events.
The Importance of Dental Care:
Dental care is essential for people of all ages, including young children. It establishes the foundation for a lifetime of oral health and prevents the onset of dental problems such as cavities and decay. As responsible parents and educators, we need to strive to instill good dental hygiene habits from an early age, encouraging regular brushing and routine dental check-ups. We at Niño & Niña do this through storytelling and hands on activities in order to make our preschoolers understand the significance of brushing.
The Impact of Diet and Nutrition:
One significant factor contributing to this trend is the shift in dietary patterns. In recent years, the availability and consumption of sugary snacks, processed foods and carbonated beverages have risen dramatically. These food choices, combined with poor oral hygiene practices, create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, leading to tooth decay and cavities.
Lack of Awareness and Education:
While some parents are well-informed about the importance of dental care, others lack sufficient knowledge in this area. Many may not realize that prolonged exposure to sugary foods and drinks can have severe consequences on their child’s dental health.
Early Childhood Habits and Habits:
Oral health habits established during early childhood can shape a child’s future dental well-being. Thumb-sucking, excessive pacifier use and prolonged bottle-feeding are some common habits that can contribute to the development of dental problems. These habits can make children more prone to cavities and tooth decay.
Advancements in Pediatric Dentistry:
Another crucial aspect to consider is the advancements in pediatric dentistry that have made complex treatments like root canals more accessible and less daunting for young children. Dentists now utilize techniques and tools specifically designed for pediatric patients, prioritizing their comfort and minimizing anxiety during procedures.
During an encounter at the PTM with one of our Prenursery parents, Dr. Suvidha Seth, a skilled Pediatric Dentist, I had the opportunity to delve into this crucial aspect of children’s dental health. She expressed her concern over the lack of awareness among many young parents regarding the significance of maintaining their children’s milk teeth in a healthy and disease-free state. Dr. Seth highlighted , “Some parents mistakenly believe that since milk teeth eventually fall out, they don’t require much attention.” However, she stressed, “neglecting dental issues in milk teeth, such as cavities and decay, can have lasting consequences on the underlying permanent teeth buds.”
Moreover, she emphasized the impact of an infected and painful mouth on a child’s diet and nutrition, underscoring that this aspect should never be underestimated. As a Pediatric Dental Surgeon, Dr. Suvidha Seth is determined to educate parents about the importance of early dental care to ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles for the children.
As a preschool owner, witnessing the increasing number of young children requiring root canal treatment has been both surprising and disheartening.
Let’s work together to ensure that the dental health of our preschoolers remains a top priority and that their smiles continue to shine bright with natural, healthy teeth.
(Dr Suvidha Seth (BDS, MDS) is a Paediatric Dentist & Laser Endo Specialist who is also an ex Resident PGI Chandigarh & a Co-Founder & Chief Consultant at Re-Hab Dental, Noida)
– Divya Joshi
Founder, Niño & Niña Preschool
