Secondhand Smoke May Affect Children's Teeth
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association reviewed 15 observational studies on the affect of secondhand smoke on children's teeth. The researchers found a moderate link between cavities in primary teeth and secondhand smoke. Additionally, they found a weak link between cavities in permanent teeth and secondhand smoke.
Dental decay is considered the most prevalent chronic disease in children and adolescents ages 6-19, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Because dental caries (AKA cavities) are so widespread, there is a push for more research into what factors influence cavities.
The links to more tooth decay in children that are already established include low exposure to fluoride and a diet high in refined sugars. Secondhand smoke may also prove to be a factor but more research needs to be done to explore that issue.
Dentists and other oral health professionals strive to understand the link between human behavior and dental concerns. This will become especially important as we move from surgical treatment of dental problems to prevention and management of them.
Source: http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/ADA/2014/article/ADA-02-study-explores-how-secondhand-smoke-may-affect-childrens-teeth.cvsp
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
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