Experts Say about Half of Australian Kids Have Tooth Decay By
Jim Greene Published on March 10, 2010 Nearly half of Australian
children have untreated tooth decay, according to the Australian
Dental Association (ADA), largely due to the prevalence of
sugary, acidic beverages and snacks in their diets. The
Department of Health for New South Wales (NSW), the country's
most populous state, says some children develop cavities by
their first birthday, and some require crowns before they enter
elementary school. ADA president Dr. Neil Hewsen said parents
must accept much of the blame, especially those who allow
"prolonged and extensive use of nursing bottles containing
sugary drinks." He suggested an aggressive campaign to promote
public awareness, similar to tactics used to battle smoking. Dr.
Philippa Sawyer, ADA Oral Health Committee chairwoman, said that
a recent study shows that about 48 percent of Australian
children have untreated tooth decay by age four, but that only
about 10 percent have been seen by a de