Statistics in Vietnam record that the rate of tooth decay in children is more than 86%, meaning that almost all children experience this condition, in which the rate of tooth decay in permanent teeth is very high.
The information was shared by Associate Professor, Dr. Tran Cao Binh, Director of Hanoi Central Hospital of Odonto-Stomatology, on the sidelines of the international scientific conference of the Department of Odonto-Stomatology, Van Lang University, on October 12.
According to Associate Professor Binh, children have more tooth decay than adults due to low awareness of tooth care and protection. Children snack a lot, lack oral hygiene, creating favorable conditions for bacteria and food plaque to cause tooth decay. Furthermore, children’s teeth are not as hard and strong as adults, so they are more susceptible to damage.
Tooth decay in children that is not treated promptly can lead to pulpitis and pulp necrosis. This condition also causes problems such as maxillary sinusitis, lymphadenitis, osteomyelitis… Tooth decay affects children’s daily life in eating, sleeping, and learning spirit.
“Every tooth decay needs early treatment. Particularly for children with baby tooth decay, if not treated promptly, baby teeth will be lost early, leading to tooth misalignment, affecting the process of permanent tooth eruption,” Associate Professor Binh speak.
Doctor examines teeth. Image: Le Phuong
Dr. Tran Ngoc Quang Phi, Head of the Department of Dentistry, Van Lang University, said that the general rate of oral diseases among Vietnamese people is similar to the rest of the world, but the severity and complexity are often higher. . Many patients approach treatment at a late stage, leading to the inability to keep their teeth.
According to Dr. Phi, tooth loss not only affects aesthetics but also affects body functions. First of all, a bad chewing system will affect the stomach. With modern life full of stress and pressure, the chewing organ also plays a role in relieving stress. When teeth are lost, the neighboring teeth will move, the opposing teeth will protrude, disturbing the chewing system, affecting the bite, and affecting the temporomandibular joint. Many patients suffer from temporomandibular joint pain to the point of depression and even want to commit suicide.
Dr. Tran Ngoc Quang Phi at the international scientific conference, October 12. Image Tra My
The Ministry of Health has issued a project to improve capacity for dental examination and treatment and community dental disease prevention for the period 2021-2030. Community dental care is focused on many age groups such as preschool, kindergarten, school, the elderly… Previously, Vietnam only focused on school dental programs, for children from elementary school.
Currently, Vietnamese doctors have mastered advanced dental and maxillofacial techniques in the world, on par with other countries in the region. This helps keep many patients in the country for treatment, attracting many international visitors for treatment because the prices are very competitive.
Experts recommend implementing the “4-2” strategy for proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day after eating. Brushing time is at least 2 minutes. You should eat 2 hours after brushing your teeth to increase the protective effect. You should have regular dental check-ups twice a year to detect and treat dental problems early, avoid serious complications, and significantly reduce treatment costs.