She is also a clinical instructor at University of Pacific School of Dentistry and an editor for Dentistry On-Line. Dentists suspect that poor oral health may impede growth and development in youngsters. Painful cavities disrupt eating and sleeping patterns. Proper nutrition and sufficient rest are required for normal growth. Acs et al.
Tooth decay can have serious long term effects on children's overall health.
Fortunately, this trend can be reversed. When relatively undersized children were treated for tooth decay, their sleeping and eating patterns slowly returned to normal. Acs et al. To prevent early childhood tooth decay and potential growth problems, parents should wipe their infant's gums with a damp cloth after every meal. Toddlers and young children will need parental assistance when they brush and floss their teeth.