PIONEEREDGE NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
The Dental department of Deen Dayal Upadhyay District Hospital has seen a surge in dental issues, particularly cases of tooth decay, among the children. This increase is attributed principally to the children consuming chocolates and snacks and also their aversion to physical activities. According to senior dental surgeon at the hospital, Dr Pankaj Kohli, the number of cases of dental issues, particularly among the children, has spiked significantly in the outpatient department (OPD) in recent years.
“Previously, the incidence of these issues was much lower, but now children as young as two years old are visiting the OPD for treatment. This is a worrisome trend,” he noted.
Kohli highlighted that many children who drink milk from a bottle at night end up having the milk linger in their mouths while they sleep. “This may weaken tooth enamel and lead to cavities,” he warned.
Symptoms of dental problems in children include the presence of black holes, toothache and swollen gums.
“To ensure that teeth do not decay in early ages, the parents should monitor their children’s diet and limit the intake of snacks and chocolates. Besides, instead of allowing them to drink milk from a bottle at night, they should offer them milk in a glass, if possible. These may, to some extent, stop teeth decay from setting in early,” Kohli said.
He further said that the hospital’s OPD not just provides treatment but also raises dental care awareness among the people who come. He also informed about the ensuing shift of the dental wing from the district hospital to Gandhi Shatabdi Eye Hospital, adding that the patients would get more advanced treatment there.
