Understanding Ways You Can Help Prevent Childhood Obesity

More than ever before, parents are now aware of the increasing obesity epidemic among youth. Dr. Sona J. Isharani, a board-certified pediatric dentist, and the team at Triad Dentistry continue to be advocates in the fight against childhood obesity in the Greensboro area. Pediatric dentists serve as a vital source for disease prevention, promotion of good health, and medical screenings for issues linked to a child’s smile. With the links found between childhood obesity and dental health, when you visit our practice, not only will your child’s smile be examined and treated, but we can also pass along education on the prevention of childhood obesity.

A pediatric dentist can help increase the awareness of issues related to a child’s diet and educate on the link between dental health issues and obesity. The AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry) has developed guidelines on dietary recommendations for infants, children, and adolescents. This policy has been developed using a nutritional platform, which offers techniques and tips for preventing a child’s risk of dental health issues and decreasing their chances of becoming obese. Some tips include

• Avoid early childhood caries in infants by avoiding the practice of giving them a bottle of milk or juice when you lay them down for a nap
• Limit snacking while maintaining regular mealtimes consisting of healthy options
• Reduce the consumption of sugary and highly acidic drinks, including sodas, sugary fruit juices, and sports drinks
• Avoid sugary food such as candy, as these are bad for the teeth and can contribute to unhealthy weight gain

Knowledge and education are invaluable tools in the fight against childhood obesity. Encouraging and guiding children towards healthy dietary habits will go a long way in making sure they live a healthy lifestyle. Alongside regular dental visits, make sure your child sees their pediatrician at regularly scheduled intervals for checkups and nutritional counseling. That will allow your child’s weight to be monitored, as extra weight brought on by poor diet could set them on the path to diabetes. Promoting a more active lifestyle, combined with a healthy diet, is a habit that will carry over into adulthood.

If you would like more info on childhood obesity prevention and other dental health concerns such as gum disease or tooth decay, your first step should be to visit a pediatric dentist. Contact Dr. Sona J. Isharani today to schedule an appointment. You can reach Triad Dentistry at (336) 383-1482.

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Dr. Steven Hatcher

Dr. Chad Merrell

Dr. Sona Isharani

Dr. Victoria Santiago-Coiro

Dr. Steven Hatcher, Dr. Chad Merrell, Dr. Sona Isharani, and Dr. Victoria Santiago-Coiro comprise the team of qualified and experienced doctors at Triad Dentistry. They are passionate and driven professionals who strive to preserve and enhance the natural beauty in every dental treatment. Together with the other members of the team, they focus on developing an individualist approach when it comes to treating patients to ensure patient care is a tailor-made experience for the comfort of each client.