Cavities are an unfortunate rite of passage for many people throughout their lives. The percentage of tooth decay in baby teeth is even quite high. In fact, in the United States, 20.5% of children between the ages of two and five are diagnosed with cavities in their baby teeth. Preventing tooth decay in the youngest members of society often starts with keeping them away from a lot of sugar in their diets, and keeping them on schedule with preventive dental appointments and daily brushing and flossing. Could there be one more way to prevent cavities in kids? Consider secondhand smoke.

Japanese Study

It is not entirely certain that secondhand smoke exposure amongst children creates a higher rate of cavities. However, a team of Japanese scientific researchers instituted a study looking for correlations between smoking during pregnancy as well as smoke exposure in homes with infants. Data on 76,920 babies born between the years of 2004 and 2010 was compiled. As the babies grew they were expected to attend routine preventive health checkups at the following ages: 0,4,9, and 18 months, and then again at age 3. The rates of smoking in the home were factored in to the study data. According to the study, cavities in the children who had smoke exposure in the house were twice as likely to succumb to decay in baby teeth.

Cosmetic Problems

The detriments of smoke exposure to oral and overall health are easy to see, and most people are well aware they should avoid the habit if they want to have the healthiest possible life. But what about your appearance? Smoking is one of the fastest ways to turn a reasonably bright smile into a dull, yellow grin you are embarrassed to flash. To avoid the need for regular deep whitening, you can stay away from habits such as tobacco use. However, if you do need help whitening a lackluster smile, there are multiple options available from most dentists, including the well-known and highly successful Zoom! Bleaching.

ABOUT YOUR WILMETTE DENTIST:

Dr. Brent Engelberg and his highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including; Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.