A Conversation with Arif Patel about Kids' Growing Dental Health Problems!

Dr Arif Patel - When you think about kids' health, you probably imagine them running around, eating well, and getting stronger. Still, parents sometimes forget about their children's dental health, which is an important part of their overall well-being. 

This, according to Arif patel, is becoming a big problem all around the world. Dr. Arif Patel is a renowned dentist with clinics in Dubai and Preston. Also, he has been treating kids and families for years, and further observed a scary trend: more dental problems in kids around.

In the coming parts of the blog, Dr Arif Patel talks about his views on this growing concern. Also, he will share the key piece of advice to tackle such issues.

Why are kids' dental health problems getting worse? 

Arif Patel says that there isn't just one explanation about this growing concern.  It's a mix of behaviors, diet, and unhealthy lifestyle

1. More sugar in the diet

Kids eat and drink more sugary foods and drinks than ever before. Also, this sugar gets into their diets in a lot of different ways, like through candy, chocolates, bottled drinks, and sodas.  Dr. Patel states, "Sugar is the worst thing for healthy teeth."  "It feeds the bacteria in the mouth and makes cavities." 

While they may not be consuming table sugar directly, all these sugary items are literally damaging their dental health.

2. Bad brushing habits

A lot of kids don't clean their teeth well, and some don't even do it before bed.  Parents think that brushing their teeth quickly is enough, but Arif Patel says that brushing for two minutes twice a day is really important. 

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This is where parents need to teach their kids about the best ways to brush their teeth.

3. Getting habitual to junk food

Children typically eat fast foods and snacks because their parents are busy.  These foods are easy to eat, but they generally have a lot of sugar, starch, and acids in them, which can hurt your teeth over time.

So, while we're talking about dental health, we must not write off the damage these junk foods are doing to our kids.

4. Not going to the dentist regularly 

Dr. Arif Patel Dubai says, "A lot of parents only take their kids to the dentist when they are in pain."  Usually, the condition has gotten worse by then.  Regular checkups might find mild problems before they get worse.

Hence, to not make it any worse, they should visit the dentist at least once a month.

Common dental problems of Today's kids

Dr. Arif Patel Dubai says that the most common dental problems he sees in kids in his clinics in Dubai and Preston are:

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Cavities (tooth decay): These are often caused by eating a lot of sugar and not brushing your teeth well.

Gum problems: Gums that are swollen or bleeding because they weren't cleaned properly.

Misaligned teeth: This can be caused by genetics or behaviors like sucking on your thumb.

Tooth sensitivity: This is becoming more frequent in kids who drink fizzy beverages or eat very cold foods.  He says that most of these difficulties can be avoided by developing the appropriate behaviors. 

What can parents do to help their children's dental health ?

Dr. Patel is sure that parents have the most power over how their children take care of their teeth.  He offers some good piece of advice in this regards, like

Start early: Start cleaning your child's gums before they get their first tooth.

Supervise brushing: Kids need help brushing their teeth until they are at least 7 years old. 

Limit sugary snacks: Make sweets a rare treat instead of something you eat every day.

Make going to the dentist fun: People shouldn't be afraid of regular check-ups; they should see them as a normal aspect of health care.  "Parents often don't realize how much kids look up to them," Dr. Patel says.  "If you make brushing fun and show them how to do it, kids will do it on their own."

Your teeth and your health in general !

Arif Patel said that many parents don't know that oral health affects the overall body.  Not taking care of your teeth can cause diseases, make it hard to chew, and even make it hard to talk.  Also, bad breath or apparent teeth decay can also hurt a child's self-esteem.

He explains, "A nice smile isn't the only thing that makes teeth healthy."  "They have to do with a child's growth, learning, and social development."

Dr. Arif Patel's advice for parents !

Arif Patel gives his best advice for keeping kids' teeth healthy:

• Follow the 2-2 rule: Brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day.
• Start flossing early: Even if it's only a habit of cleaning between your teeth.
• Pick water over soda: Get kids to drink water instead of sugary drinks.
• Give snacks that are good for teeth: Instead of chips and candy, give fruits, cheese, and nuts.
• Regular dental visits: It's best to go to the dentist twice a month or at least twice a year whenever possible.

Understanding the Message!

Arif Patel has worked in both Dubai and Preston, so he knows that oral health problems in kids are a problem all around the world.  Different cultures and diets may be different, but the primary problems are still the same: too much sugar, not enough care, and not going to the dentist on time. 

His message to parents is clear: "The health of your child's teeth today will affect their health in the future."  Start early, stick with it, and keep in mind that it's always better to avoid than to treat.

Final words

More and more kids are having dental problems, but they don't have to.  Parents can keep their kids from having to go through unpleasant and expensive treatments later in life by being alert, teaching them good habits, and taking care of their teeth on a regular basis. Also, families and kids can still visit Dr. Arif Patel's clinics in Dubai and Preston for both treatment and education. 

He wants more parents to care about their kids' dental health by talking about these things openly.  A child's smile is priceless, so keeping it healthy should always be a top priority.