Expert Commentary: Dr. Ozzie E. Smith III 12/17/09

At our clinic, the first visit is primarily a conversation with the parents to educate them as how to properly care for their child’s developing teeth.  The tragedy is that most dental disease in children is caused by ignorance.  Many of the parents just don’t have an idea as to the damage that can be caused not only to the primary teeth, but to the permanent teeth by improper home care, poor diet, and sporadic visits to the dentist.

We feel that good dental hygiene is also a good indication of other health factors in general. If parents are teaching themselves and their children how to take care of their teeth, they are most likely also teaching them about good eating habits -- how to avoid too many sweets and too many fatty, calorie laden foods.  There have been several studies, including one from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. that point to the relationship between tooth decay and obesity. 

No question as the old adage points out: "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." .