The epidemic of childhood tooth decay

Tooth decay is now considered an epidemic by many. We strive on a daily basis to pass on the very best help and advice we can, often sounding repetitive, however, professionally we feel it our duty to continue.

The number of children in England having their teeth removed because of tooth decay has risen for the fourth year in a row.

 

The BBC released figures earlier this year that 33,781 cases of extractions due to decay in children under 10.

Children in England drink more sugary drink than anywhere else in Europe, this sugar diet is to blame for the rise in decay. Every day I pass children starting or finishing their school day carrying cups belonging to high street coffee chains. More than a third of the drinks these companies produce contain the same amount of sugar as a can of coke. Whilst I consider the decay implications, I also remind myself of the increased heart rate these young people get after the huge hit of sugar, and the possible future problems from diabetes (another "epidemic" that is all of our own making).

If we cannot get the message across now in an era when communication is at the forefront of every teenagers agenda, will we ever be able to?

 

Will the sugar tax help? We are told this tax will raise £520 million that will be put back into sports facilities in schools. I suppose we will all have to wait and see. I personally feel the fight will continue.....