Pediatric Tooth Decay: Facts About a Global Problem

Dental disease in children, also called pediatric dental disease or childhood tooth decay, is more common than any other chronic disease in the world. If it’s not treated, its impact can reach far beyond an unsightly smile. Rampant tooth decay reduces a child’s ability to talk and chew properly. It can even slow their mental and social growth or cause medical issues like malnutrition and painful oral infections. If tooth decay isn’t managed in childhood, children could face increased risk of cardiovascular disease, pregnancy complications, dementia, and other serious health conditions later in life.

The Global Tooth Decay Crisis

Tooth decay affects between 60 and 90 percent of children and a majority of adults in most industrialized countries. In many regions, there is simply no access to adequate oral health care. Where dental care is lacking, decayed teeth are often extracted due to pain, or simply left untreated. In the U.S. alone, about 17 million children go without dental care every year. More than 51 million school hours are lost because of dental disease, and 43 percent of Americans lack dental insurance. More than a quarter of children between two and five years old and half of those aged 12 to 15 have significant tooth decay.

Save Children’s Teeth with Basic Dental Care

The frustrating but simple truth is that tooth decay is almost always preventable with proper dental care and professional treatment from an affordable dentist. In some parts of the world, there are few dental care resources available, but in Western culture, affordable dentistry and financial aid are within reach for most people. Don’t let your child become another statistic. Get dental care for pediatric tooth decay promptly to ensure your child’s well being for the rest of their life.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Owings Mills, call Valley Dental Associates today at (443) 898-1240 or make an appointment.

Valley Dental Associates offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Owings Mills. With 10 affiliated practices throughout Owings Mills, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Valley Dental Associates, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Valley Dental Associates.