Schoolchildren Average 2.01 Cavities: Experts Recommend Strategies to Strengthen Enamel – Limiting Daily Beverage Consumption is Key.
According to data from the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the average cavity experience index for 12-year-old schoolchildren in 2022 revealed that Miaoli County had the highest rate at 3.82 cavities per child. Taichung City followed with an average of 3.28 cavities per child. Although New Taipei City’s average of 1.9 cavities is below the national average of 2.01, it still falls short when compared to the global average of 1.67, highlighting the need for continued efforts to improve oral health.
Collective Efforts in Oral Health Can Reduce Tooth Decay Rates
Fan Gangxin, Director of the Dental Department at Enzhugong Hospital, emphasizes the importance of active parental involvement in children’s oral hygiene. He explained that children aged 5 to 10 generally brush their teeth on their own, but parental supervision is crucial. “If parents only provide one-sided supervision and do not actively check their children’s oral cleanliness, the children may not achieve effective oral hygiene,” he stated. He advocates for real, interactive supervision to ensure a win-win situation for both children and parents in maintaining oral health.
Limiting Sugary Drinks: A Key Step in Preventing Tooth Decay And Obesity
One elementary school student reportedly consumed two sugary drinks daily during the summer, leading to both weight gain and early signs of tooth decay. Director Fan Gangxin urges parents to strictly monitor their children’s intake of sugary beverages to reduce the risk of obesity and high cavity rates.
He also cautions against the habit of drinking sugary beverages for extended periods, such as over one to two hours, as it exposes the teeth to sugar and acids for a prolonged time. This continuous exposure can lead to white decalcification of the teeth, a condition that weakens the enamel and makes it more susceptible to cavities. Once enamel is damaged, it is difficult to restore, making prevention critical.
Fluoride Use: A Key Strategy in Preventing Tooth Decay
In addition to dietary habits, the application of fluoride plays a significant role in strengthening enamel and preventing tooth decay. Fluoride helps to reinforce the enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks and reducing the likelihood of cavities. This is especially important for young children who may not yet have mastered proper brushing techniques.
Dr. Fan Gangxin pointed out that the government currently provides free fluoride treatments for children under the age of six every six months. He also advised parents to choose toothpaste that contains more than 1000ppm of fluoride. According to Dr. Fan, using fluoride toothpaste consistently for over two years can reduce the cavity rate among schoolchildren by up to 50%. He further recommended using fluoride mouthwash once a week, in addition to brushing teeth for at least two minutes twice a day and incorporating dental floss into daily routines. These practices, he noted, can effectively lower the risk of cavities and contribute to a healthier life.