Over Half of Children Struggle with Oral Health: Early Cavity Prevention Is Key
The Importance of Baby Teeth Development for Permanent Tooth Health
Guiding children to brush their teeth and visit the dentist can often feel like a relentless, ongoing battle. Many parents find it exhausting to overcome their children’s resistance to dental care, which can lead to the misconception that ‘baby teeth are temporary, so cavities don’t matter.’ This mindset often results in the neglect of children’s oral health. However, baby teeth aren’t fully replaced until children are 12 or 13 years old, and their condition significantly impacts the development and health of permanent teeth[1][2]. Therefore, focusing on children’s oral health early on is a crucial investment with lifelong benefits.
Cavities Among Schoolchildren Drive Market Growth
Cavities, or ‘dental caries,’ are the most common oral health issue among children and a leading contributor to other diseases. Poor oral hygiene is the primary cause, as oral bacteria break down carbohydrates and produce acids that erode tooth enamel over time, leading to cavities. According to a 2020 survey by Taiwan’s Ministry of Education’s K-12 Education Administration, the prevalence of cavities among elementary and middle school students was alarmingly high at 54.83%[3]. Additionally, the Ministry of Health and Welfare reported that the average number of cavities in the permanent teeth of 12-year-olds was 2.01—higher than the global average and neighboring countries like Japan and South Korea[4]. However, in recent years, the government has actively promoted oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, fluoride application, and reducing sugar intake, which has gradually decreased the average number of cavities. Furthermore, as the birth rate declines, parents are placing greater emphasis on children’s oral health, with the global market for related products projected to reach US$9.09 billion by 2032[5].
[1] Oral health for children
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/topics/oral-health/caring-your-teeth-mouth/children.html
[2] 家長做錯這件事，4歲童牙齒全蛀光！牙醫師3個建議擋下蛀牙危機
https://www.edh.tw/article/30512
[3] 國教署推動有效口腔保健策略 學生齲齒率6年持續下降達11%
https://www.edu.tw/News_Content.aspx?n=9E7AC85F1954DDA8&s=7CCCAC8F1E06FDA0
[4] 全台兒童蛀牙調查！苗栗縣蛀牙率位居第一 手搖飲是元兇？
https://kids.heho.com.tw/archives/154589
[5] Kids Oral Care Products Market Outlook
https://www.factmr.com/report/4878/kids-oral-care-products-market
Supplements for Oral Health:
Multifunctional Benefits and Smart Diet Tips to Prevent Cavities
Replacing Regular Snacks with Nutrient-Rich Supplements for Oral Health
A common misconception about cavities is that they are caused solely by ‘eating too much sugar.’ While sugary foods are more likely to stick to teeth and are harder to clean than salty snacks, both types of food can contribute to cavities. Experts recommend adjusting dietary habits—not only avoiding high-sugar foods but also limiting high-starch snacks like potato chips and cakes, as well as acidic fruits, dried fruits, and carbonated drinks[6]. With the constant influx of new snack options[7], it can be challenging to eliminate them entirely from daily life. Instead, parents can opt for nutrient-rich, low-sugar oral care gummies or pastes to replace some daily snacks. This approach helps prevent children from sneaking sugary treats or rebellious overeating, while also satisfying their cravings and supporting oral health.
What to Look for When Choosing Supplements for Oral Health
When choosing children’s supplements for oral health, it’s important to consider not only the dosage form (like gummies or pastes) but also key ingredients such as xylitol. Xylitol is a natural sweetener with a low calorie and glycemic index that not only reduces sugar intake but also lingers in the mouth, helping to inhibit bacterial growth. Additionally, supplements containing probiotics are beneficial, as saliva includes immune components like IgA. Probiotics can stimulate saliva production, forming a protective barrier that helps prevent cavities.
By managing their children’s diet and incorporating supplements for oral health, parents can help reduce fear of dental care, making oral hygiene less of a struggle and fostering healthy dental habits with greater ease.
[6] 蛀牙原因飲食篇！吃餅乾、喝氣泡水真會傷牙？對牙齒好的食物揭曉！
https://pinmed.co/blog/22926
[7] Snack Food Industry Size & Share Analysis – Growth Trends & Forecasts (2024 – 2029)
https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/snack-food-market