Yoghurt could help to reduce tooth decay amongst children
A recent research project has revealed that eating yoghurt could reduce tooth decay amongst children by up to 22 percent.
The study, which was conducted by a Japanese research team, found that 3 year olds who eat yoghurt at least four times a week were up to 22 percent less likely to suffer from tooth decay than those who ate yoghurts less than once per week. The findings of the study have recently been published in the Journal of Dentistry
The study was conducted to investigate claims that dairy products reduced the risk of tooth decay; however, the results showed that butter, milk and cheese had very little effect on dental health, while yoghurt was proven to be highly beneficial for dental health.
There are various theories that have been put forward with reference to how yoghurt reduces the risk of tooth decay; however none of them have been proven as concrete and further research is required. The most popular theory suggests that yoghurt contains specific proteins, which bind to the enamel surfaces of the teeth, making them stronger and more resistant to plaque acids and subsequent decay.
The study may come as welcome news for parents, as yoghurts are a popular food amongst young children. Recently, there has been a great deal of concern over levels of decay amongst younger children, with the number of cases of tooth decay amongst two and three year olds increasing year on year. Hospitals and dentists have reported an increase in the number of young children being admitted to hospital for dental treatment for preventable conditions, such as tooth decay.
Many people are unaware of the relationship between their diet and oral health and dentists are urging parents and children to consider what they eat carefully; dentists are encouraging parents to give sugary foods like cakes, biscuits and sweets as treats, rather than providing them as a staple part of their child’s diet. In addition to this, parents are urged to encourage their children to brush their teeth twice a day and take them to see their dentist on a regular basis.
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