Kid's Dental Care - Cavities May be Life Threatening

By Susan Braden
Published Sep 17 2010

In today's unpredictable economy, proper oral care can fall by the wayside for families who do not have access to affordable dental care. Untreated tooth decay could seriously harm your children's physical and behavioral development.

Income level and education level are both  factors that contribute to access to adequate oral care, according to Dr. Joel Berg, director of The Center for Pediatric Dentistry in Seattle, Wash. In a recent South Seattle Beacon article, he notes that:

"Children from low-income families are three times more likely to have untreated dental disease. In King County, [Wash.] less than four in 10 children enrolled in Medicaid received any dental services in 2009...

Serious complications associated with dental disease are unfortunately widespread. When children have cavities it can be more difficult for them to eat, which increases their risk for malnourishment. Without proper nutrients, the brain doesn’t get what it needs to mature, stunting development.

Additionally, a hungry child has more difficulty concentrating in school than a nourished one, which impedes learning. Dental disease can also delay speech development.

Tooth nerves are close to the brain’s blood supply. Infections in this area can be life-threatening…"

Though it can have serious consequences, tooth decay is almost entirely preventable. Incorporate these two simple steps into your child’s routine to avoid health complications:

• Teach your kids from an early age not only how to brush and floss correctly, but also why these habits are necessary.
• Take them to a dentist every 6 months, starting at their first birthday. 

If you need help paying for regular dentist visits, affordable dental care through the Careington 500 Series plan can make maintaining your family's oral health both cheaper and more accessible.