Children as young as one need dental surgery in Northern Ireland, new research confirms

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Children as young as one year old are being admitted to hospital as a result of dental problems, new research has confirmed.

Figures from four of the five health trusts have revealed that thousands of children are undergoing extraction under general anaesthetic in hospital as a result of severe decay. Figures for this year show that 4,227 children were admitted to hospital, and this doesn’t include those living in the area covered by the Western Trust. The most recent figures from that trust show that more than 760 youngsters needed treatment in hospital in 2015.

Dr James Kelly, a dentist, said that the figures were alarming, and show the extent of dental damage caused by the modern diet. In many cases, parents are unaware of the potential damage the foods their children eat can cause. Research shows that most children consume far more sugar than they need, for example.

The statistics showed that hospital admissions were most prevalent in younger children aged between 3 and 4 years old; however, shockingly, three children aged just one underwent treatment in hospital.

Dr Kelly, from Coalisland Dental, said that often, it’s a case of parents being unaware of the hidden dangers of foods and drinks that are sometimes branded as healthy options. Juices, smoothies, and flavoured water, for example, are thought to be healthier than fizzy drinks; however, many shop-bought versions contain almost as much sugar per serving as pop.

Dr Kelly, who has been a qualified dentist for almost 20 years, said that surgery is a major undertaking for children, and it’s also a very worrying situation for parents. To reduce the risk of decay, Dr Kelly urged parents to read food labels and to supervise children when they brush their teeth. Regular dental appointments are also strongly recommended.

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