Earlier Tooth Eruption in Obese Children
Childhood obesity rates have been rising since 1980, when only 7 percent of children between 6 and 11 were obese. Today, an estimated 20 percent of children are obese, according to the CDC, and rates of obesity for children in some ethnic groups are nearly 30 percent. Obesity can have serious long-term effects on a childís overall health and his or her dental health. Dr. Onwunka, dentist in Los Angeles, encourages her patients to take a proactive approach to dental health and prevent dental disease through good dental hygiene and healthy lifestyle habits.
A recent analysis studied the link between obesity and tooth development and revealed that obese children tended to have 2.77 more teeth than non-obese children by the time they were 10 and 11. Earlier eruption of teeth can increase the likelihood of malocclusions, and some teeth may be more vulnerable to dental caries. Researchers believe that obesity is just one of several factors involved in the timing of tooth eruption, but it may be a significant one particularly when a childís dietary habits are considered. An obese child with an unhealthy diet, a diet heavy in simple carbohydrates or with large volumes of soda, energy drinks or juices may be more likely to suffer from decay and other dental diseases related to his or her diet and the early eruption of his or her teeth.
If your child has a BMI that is equal or greater to the 85th percentile, he or she may be considered overweight. A BMI equal to or greater than the 95th percentile is considered obese. A healthy diet that includes plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains and water or milk to drink can help your child achieve a healthier body weight. Increased physical activity is also important. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Onwunka, Los Angeles pediatric dentist, to learn more about how you can help your child achieve a healthier body and stronger teeth.