Tooth Decay on the Rise in Dubai, According to New Survey
Tooth decay is becoming increasingly prevalent in Dubai, according to the findings of a new study.
A survey, which involved more than 5,500 school-aged children, revealed that almost two thirds of teenagers aged between 15 and 17 suffer from dental decay, while gum disease is also an issue with up to 80 per cent of 12-15 year olds showing signs of gum health issues.
Researchers collated the results of screening checks at 47 government and private schools and the findings were alarming. Rates of decay in younger children, aged between 5 and 7 years old, were more than 6 times as high as rates in the UK and Denmark.
Screening was provided by hygienists and dentists from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and in total, 5617 students were checked; the children ranged from 5 to 17 years old.
Dr Hamda Al Mesmar, director of DHA dental services, said that the findings didn’t come as a shock to the dental team, which sees children with poor oral health on a regular basis; however, the situation is very concerning. The survey revealed that many children don’t even brush their teeth once a day, let alone twice and many consume sugar-laden, acidic fruit juices on a regular basis.
In order to ameliorate the situation in Dubai, dentists have called for better education for parents and children to enable them to develop effective brushing skills and make healthy food choices. Dental nurses and hygienists will also work with schools to improve standards of oral health and hopefully reduce the prevalence of decay.
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