It’s Oral Health Month: Let’s talk early childhood tooth decay

Kristen Becker, Alberta Health Services

A recent Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) study reports that treating cavities is the most common reason for preschool-aged children to have day surgery. CIHI estimates that annually, 19,000 Canadian children undergo general anesthesia for an average of 82 minutes per surgery to treat severe tooth decay. This costs Canadians more than $21.2 million per year, excluding family travel costs, initial dental assessments and surgical anesthesia.


Besides the financial burden to families, early childhood cavities can also affect a child’s personal well being. For example: tooth decay has been linked to loss of sleep and appetite, delayed speech and growth, poor learning and behavioural problems, as well as oral pain and infection (i.e., abcess), which can cause further health problems in the rest of the body. A baby tooth that needs to be extracted due to severe decay affects a child’s ability to chew and digest food and can negatively impact their appearance and self- esteem. Before our adult teeth come in, primary teeth play an essential role as “space savers” that guide the new tooth into the correct position.

Children prone to cavities in their baby teeth are more likely to develop cavities as adults. And as soon as those baby teeth come in, children are susceptible to tooth decay. That’s why in 2005, the Canadian Dental Association released a statement recommending that caregivers bring children for their first dental assessment within six months of getting their first tooth and no later than the age of one. Evidence has shown that professional dental assessments early on, combined with education to parents, helps prevent early childhood cavities. And cavities detected in the early stages can often be treated in the dental office without having to use general anesthetic.

Early childhood tooth decay is a preventable, treatable infectious disease. There are things you can do at home to decrease your child’s risk. Monitor your child’s sugar intake, especially between meals, and provide tooth-friendly snacks such as raw vegetables, apples and cheese. Try to limit the amount of fruit juice being consumed and offer water as an alternative. Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice. Even nightly unrestricted, at-will breastfeeding can increase your child’s risk of cavities. Lift your child’s top and bottom lip at least once monthly to check the teeth for signs of cavities. Early decay often looks white and chalky and can’t be scratched off. Examine around the gums for brown, black and yellow spots because these could be early signs of a cavity. If you see anything suspicious or are unsure, bring your child to see a dental professional.

Did you know Alberta Health Services offers free visual exams and fluoride varnishes to children 12-35 months old? Contact your local Public Health office to see if your child is eligible for this program.

Kristen Becker is a dental hygienist with Alberta Health Services’ Population Health Promotion and can be reached at 403-388-6776 or email Kristen.Becker@albertahealthservices.ca.