Dental health of kids deteriorating, chewable tobacco also a contributor

The notification by the Delhi government to ban the chewable tobacco for a year is a move that will not only help in preventing cancer but also the deteriorating dental health conditions of the citizens of Delhi, especially the youth who are also affected by it, feel dental experts at Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences (MAIDS). 

Dr Kavita says: “Tobacco chewing is also seen as one of the major factors for the poor dental health amongst citizens.  The youth in Delhi are also taking to chewable tobacco that causes stains and decay. 

“At MAIDS, we have the tobacco cessation centre where even children aged 14 years are also coming to get treated for bad teeth that has got affected due to chewing of tobacco.”

Besides this, lack of dental awareness like proper brushing techniques, junk food items are also affecting dental health conditions of the national Capital. At a recent survey conducted by MAIDS in eight government schools in Delhi,  among 10,456 students screened about 58 per cent of them were found to be having tooth decay in which 19 per cent were severe and also 24.7 per cent students were found to be having irregular teeth. She added: “Children in Delhi are suffering from dental caries, gum diseases and gingivitis which is then causing more complications.” 

Dr Kavita further added that origins of poor dental health begin from weak gums that get affected due to junk food and consumption of chewable tobacco.

Dr Neelima added: “As there is a link now which has been proved between poor dental health also causes weak  cardiac situation, its health and hygiene should not be taken lightly.”  

To cause awareness among the citizens of Delhi, MAIDS has started six mobile vans, two large ones and four medium ones, besides imparting dental awareness. It also deals in oral prophylaxis and cleaning procedures. The MAIDS also plans to conduct a dental survey at city  juvenile homes and orphanage centres too.