This Disease Is Found In 1 In 5 Pre-Schoolers

Many parents and caregivers, despite their best intentions, often overlook an important aspect of preschoolers’ health, leading to a chronic ailment that could impact a child’s daily functioning.

So, what affects 1 in 5 preschoolers by the age of 5?

Chronic Dental Decay

Parents may question this, thinking, “but they lose their baby teeth.” However, it’s crucial to realize that the health of baby teeth significantly influences the health of permanent teeth. Therefore, focusing on oral health from a young age is essential for parents.


Why is this so critical? Dental decay is a chronic condition that progresses if left unchecked. The unseen teeth are also at risk due to the preschooler’s oral health.

Doctors and dentists caution against bottle rot – a condition that arises when a baby excessively uses a bottle like a pacifier. Unless the liquid is water, its contents adhere to the baby’s teeth, fostering conditions that lead to plaque, cavities, and gum disease.

Sweet Tooth

Another common cause of childhood cavities is the consumption of sweets and junk food prevalent in society. Even with a controlled diet, dental diseases remain a concern.

To combat this, the Centers for Disease Control advocate for fluoride varnish to reduce cavities, decreasing baby teeth cavities by about one-third. Additionally, dental sealants are highly effective in preventing childhood cavities, with an 80 percent success rate in averting future cavities in adult teeth stemming from early childhood.

Dentist Visits

The evidence underscores the importance of taking preschoolers for dental visits at a young age. While many wait until the child is older, the American Association of Pediatric Dentists recommends the first visit at age one, supported by the CDC and the American Dental Association.


Early visits allow the family dentist to detect issues early, provide essential guidance on oral care for young teeth, and familiarize the child with the dental process, potentially reducing dental anxiety and the need for fillings.

Oral health issues in children can hinder speech, proper eating habits, and learning due to pain and discomfort, leading to school absences.

As humans live longer lives, preserving dental health to prevent early decay becomes increasingly crucial. Ensuring proper dental care for preschoolers now can safeguard their teeth well into their later years.

*collaborative post