Bottled water is likely a factor in rising rates of tooth decay in preschoolers, says a new report from U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dr. Randall Croutze, an Edmonton dentist, said more people are drinking bottled water that doesn't contain fluoride, which works to prevent cavities. Croutze recommended drinking tap water to prevent cavities.

"It's an extremely low dose of fluoride in the water and it's only beneficial for the strong development for enamel," Croutze said.


A glass of tap water is seen. Bottled water is likely a factor in rising rates of tooth decay in preschoolers, says a new report from U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Between 1988 and 1994, 24 per cent in the two-to-five age group had cavities, compared to 28 per cent between 1999 to 2004.

Croutze said the data "absolutely" applies to Canada as he's seen a large increase in the number of cavities in young patients because of dietary habits.

"We've seen children, 18 months old, and they'll have rampant carries that decimated their teeth. They end up with stainless steel crowns and extractions," Croutze said. "It's becoming a bigger problem."

There are several ways sugar sneaks into our diet.

For example, pop and sugary juices are obvious culprits in tooth decay, but milk, unsweetened juice, dried fruits and bottled water may be just as harmful.

Younger children are at a greater risk of developing cavities because they have thinner enamel, poorer oral hygiene and tend to eat more sugar than adults.

Children under six shouldn't brush with fluoride because they cannot properly spit the toothpaste out. If they swallow large amounts of fluoride, it can be toxic. They also need a toothpaste with a weaker taste so they brush longer.

Croutze pointed to higher cavity-rates in Calgary compared to Edmonton. Edmonton fluoridated the water in 1967, whereas Calgary did not start until 1992.

Croutze said while the amount of sugar in food and drinks plays a factor, the bacterial growth depends mostly on the number of times the mouth is exposed to sugar or acid.

The study found tooth decay in six to 11-year-olds dropped from 25 per cent to about 21 per cent. There was a decrease to 59 per cent from 68 per cent in people aged 12 to 19.


Tips to prevent tooth decay in children under six:

- Limit the number of times the child is exposed to sugary foods and drinks

- Set a good example by brushing and flossing

- Before teeth come in, wipe the gums with a washcloth after feedings

- Brush with a non-fluoride toothpaste

- Help kids floss

- Get a flavour of toothpaste the child enjoys. Strong mint flavors almost burn the mouth

- Drink water with fluoride

- Children should have their teeth checked every six months
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Reporter : mehdi akbarsefat

َApproved by : Story Id 28

Create date : 5 May 2008 13:40

Id : 3426

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