Childhood Dental Caries

Differences between Adult and Childhood Dental Caries

Adult and childhood dental caries differ significantly in causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment. Adult caries are often related to long-term poor habits, smoking, alcohol consumption, and gum recession. Common symptoms include sensitivity, pain, and cavities in permanent teeth. Prevention focuses on oral hygiene and lifestyle management, with treatment options like fillings, root canals, and crowns being more diverse.

In contrast, childhood dental caries occurs in primary teeth and are characterized by black or brown spots on the tooth surface that gradually enlarge into cavities. The prevalence of childhood dental caries is increasing both domestically and internationally. Research indicates that genetics, diet, and oral hygiene habits all contribute to the development of caries in children.

The dangers of childhood dental caries should not be underestimated. Caries can cause localized tooth pain, infection, and loss, significantly affecting a child's chewing function and oral health, which in turn impacts their nutrition absorption, growth, development, speech, and psychological health. Studies have shown a close relationship between dental caries and malnutrition in children (Smith et al. 2018).

Causes of Childhood Dental Caries

The causes of childhood dental caries are varied and complex, mainly involving bacterial activity, dietary factors, oral hygiene, and the structure of primary teeth. The interaction between oral bacteria and food residues is the primary cause of caries. The intake of high-sugar and high-acid foods also provides abundant nutrients for bacteria. Additionally, poor oral hygiene habits and the structural characteristics of primary teeth can increase the risk of caries. Johnson & Lee (2019) pointed out in their review of the causes of primary tooth caries that these factors interact to cause childhood caries.

Prevention of Childhood Dental Caries

1. To prevent childhood dental caries, we can take the following measures:
2. Dietary Adjustments: Reduce sugar intake and increase the consumption of vegetables and fruits. This helps maintain the acid-base balance in the oral cavity and reduces bacterial growth opportunities.
3. Oral Hygiene: Parents should teach children the correct brushing methods and encourage them to develop good habits of brushing twice a day and rinsing after meals. Regular dental check-ups are also essential.
4. Use of Fluoride: Using fluoride toothpaste can effectively enhance the anti-caries ability of teeth. Fluoride varnishes are also an effective preventive measure.
5. Fissure Sealants: For deep grooves on the surface of primary teeth, fissure sealants can be used to prevent caries. This technique can seal grooves, reducing bacterial growth and food residue retention.

Treatment of Childhood Dental Caries

For children who already have caries, appropriate treatment methods should be adopted based on the severity of the condition. Non-surgical treatments include local cleaning and medication; surgical treatments include fillings and extractions. Early intervention is crucial for controlling the disease and reducing pain.