Is There a Link:
Tooth Decay & Weight Gain

Aired on Lifetime Television
April 20 and June 1, 2008
Show 509

As parents, we know what our children eat is directly related to their likelihood to become overweight or obese. Many fatty foods and sugar-filled drinks are affecting our children's health and well-being, causing obesity rates to soar. But it's also causing another major concern: tooth decay and poor oral health. Teaching your child that sugar and starchy foods can cause cavities helps them understand why brushing and flossing away bacteria is so important. It can also help them make better food choices. Encourage them to brush at least twice a day and after meals if they can. Limiting between-meal and sugary snacks will also help make room for healthier choices and prevent tooth decay. Your kids should also know the importance of flossing and making it a part of their daily routine to remove food and plaque particles from between their teeth.  You can start flossing your child's teeth as soon as they come in; by the time they're seven, your kid should know how to floss all by themselves. And just like a checkup at the doctor, your kids need to visit the dentist twice a year for a regular cleaning, and talk to your dentist about good nutrition and what food choices can help with those healthy smiles in your family. If your kids learn to make brushing, flossing and good nutrition as important as their playtime, they'll always keep those healthy grins.