Deciduous (“baby”) teeth may eventually fall out and be replaced by permanent teeth, but that does not mean that they are expendable or any less important than adult teeth. It is therefore a matter of concern to dentists that 20.5 percent of U.S. children between the ages of two and five have tooth decay in their deciduous teeth. While prevention of this problem largely focuses on restricting sugar intake and oral fluoride supplementation, there is also evidence that exposure to secondhand smoke may play a role. According to an analysis of data involving nearly 77,000 children, those exposed to secondhand smoke at the age of 4 months were twice as likely to experience dental caries up to three years later.
No amount of secondhand smoke is safe for anyone. It’s important for your health and the health of your children to stop smoking. Smoking has serious negative effects on the entire body, including the mouth,teeth, and gums. At West Brookfield Dental, Our team is passionate about providing care with elevated standards of service to ensure our patients receive the very best our profession has to offer. Call us at 508.867.2777 and schedule an appointment. We’re located at 9 West Main St., West Brookfield.
P.S. Exposure to secondhand smoke may increase the risk of tooth decay in very young children by lowering their immunity, decreasing saliva production, and/or lowering serum vitamin C levels.
