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Local Dentists See Cavity Increase In Pre-School Aged Children

By Michelle Durham

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Local dentists are noticing an increase in pre-school age children coming into their office for a check-up with numerous cavities.

Dr. Josh Bresler who's practice is called "Cavity Busters" says the problem is a significant one.

"We have, over the past few years, seen probably 50 to 60 children every week in that pre-school age who need to be put under general anesthesia to have all 20 teeth repaired."

Why?

"One issue is that children are not coming to the dentist early enough. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend that children be seen by a dentist by their first birthday. The old recommendations were that children were to be seen by age three. By three it's too late."
When asked if children drinking bottled water as opposed to the floridated tap water most municipalities offer is a factor, Bresler says it's not but the juice boxes, fruit snacks and flavored waters they consume are.

 

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