Age-old dental problem persists Updated: 5/9/2008 2:00:16 PM Print Article Email Article           A dentist has said that despite all the developments and breakthroughs in dental technology over the last few decades, the age-old problem of tooth decay remains a major issue for many people. Writing in the Malden Observer, Dr David Leader cited a report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last year, which found that tooth decay among school children in the US is on the rise. In addition, the study highlighted disparities between racial and socio-economic groups, with 31 per cent of Mexican-American children suffering from tooth decay, compared to only 19 per cent of non-Hispanic white children. Meanwhile, the rate of untreated decay among children from families living below the federal poverty line is three times the rate of those from wealthier backgrounds. Dr Leader revealed that dental infection results when the bacteria present in decay invades dental pulp, the soft inside part of the tooth that includes nerves and blood vessels. He recommended encouraging children to brush and floss their teeth regularly, cut down on sugar and drink plenty of water to avoid tooth decay. Reuters reported last year that the increase in the amount of sugary snacks available to young children and the rising popularity of bottled water (which is generally not fluoridated) over tap water could be to blame for the proliferation of tooth decay among children. © 2008 Brafton Inc. Enter your ZIP code to compare the savings and benefits offered by the discount dental plans in your area. Take the first step toward a healthier smile and start saving today! > Find my dentist > Find a ZIP code             Additional Articles Problem Gambling Common Among Young Adul... Gene May Be Key to Pregnancy Complicatio... Health Tip: Baby's Transition From Liqui... Health Tip: Using Hair Dyes Young Adults Using Alcohol, Drugs for Be... Telemedicine a Cost-Effective Alternativ... Age-old dental problem persists Secret to Treating Tinnitus in Vets May ... TV Coverage of Tragedies Often Lacks Pre... Computer Program Helps Drug Abusers Stay... High Blood Sugar Tied to Pregnancy Compl... Bipolar Disorder Might Be Overdiagnosed... Researchers Publish Genome Sequence for ... Corticosteroids of Little Use Against Ch... Alcoholism Gender Gap Is Closing Noninvasive Procedures Show Promise for ... Doctors Discover Marker for Meconium Pas... Many Teen Drivers Don't Think They're In... Many Ob-Gyn Textbooks Lack Good Info on ... Costs Can Vary By $100 or More for Same ...

Search Plans & Dentists - F.A.Q.'s - Tell a Friend About Us - Bookmark This Page - Receive Our Newsletter - Return to Home Page