Dental Health: Why You Should Limit Sweets, Sugary Food for Your Child

Dental health experts in Eldoret town have expressed concerns about rising cases of dental caries among children in the region.

Dr. Paul Wangwe, a dental surgeon at Aquadent Dental Clinic in Eldoret town says dental caries, also referred to as dental decay is a result of children using too many sugary foods.

The dental expert warns that if left unattended, dental decay can have adverse effects on the children.

“Parents who are doing shopping for their children should limit buying sweets and sweet juices to limit the increase in dental decay which if left unattended causes pain,” notes Dr. Wange.

He also says it can be worse for children in boarding schools as some may not complain, and even if they do, schools may not be well equipped to handle dental issues.

“Generally, dental caries is caused by poor oral hygiene and excessive use of sugary foods without proper hygiene,” says the dentist surgeon at Aquadent Dental Clinic in Eldoret town who is now advising parents to always ensure they take their children for dental checkups frequently.

Similar sentiments are shared by Zumeya Mustafa, an oral hygiene expert at the Eldoret-based clinic.

She points out that dental decay can cause holes in teeth, leading to headaches and bad breath.

“As a parent, you should teach your children how to brush their teeth as early as possible, at least twice a day – in the morning and before they go to sleep,” advises the oral hygiene expert.

“Also, avoid giving them too many sugary foods like sweets and chocolates. If they must eat, make sure they brush their teeth,” she adds.

Dental health issues are not only a concern among children but also for adults.

A 2015 survey done by health experts revealed that at least 34 percent of adults in Kenya had been affected by dental decay.