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Written By Jan Burns, M.Ed.
and Beth Anderson of PAGER - Pediatric GastroEsophageal
Reflux Association
www.reflux.org
[This information was originally published in booklet
form by PAGER at a cost of $5.00 per copy. If you find it
helpful, please consider supporting their important work by
making a donation to them at
www.reflux.org.]
Question: Do children with acid reflux have more
dental problems than other children?
Answer: Yes, there is some evidence that children with
pediatric acid reflux are more likely to experience several
types of dental problems including: cavities, bad breath and
enamel erosion. Children with acid reflux who experience
frequent vomiting (daily, weekly) are especially at risk for
tooth decay.
Question: Why do children with acid reflux have more
dental problems than other children?
Answer: Acid Reflux can cause the teeth to be exposed to
acid due to the abnormal backwashing of stomach contents
into the esophagus and mouth. Stomach acid is very caustic
and can quickly strip away the outer layer of enamel,
especially on the inner surfaces of the teeth next to the
tongue.
Some children with acid reflux may experience the
following problems:
- Poor nutrition in infancy may lead to soft teeth.
- Frequent meals and snacks may lessen reflux symptoms
but cause an increase in tooth decay.
- The child with acid reflux may favor a diet rich in
carbohydrates. Unfortunately, starchy foods tend to stick
on the teeth and cause decay.
- Multiple medications may be needed to treat reflux and
associated complications. However, sugar is frequently
added to medications and is known to cause tooth decay.
- Some medications decrease saliva, which helps to
“wash” the teeth of food and irritants.
- Some children with acid reflux dislike toothbrushing
due to oral sensitivity, a hyperactive gag reflex or
negative oral experiences. In addition, enamel erosion can
cause sensitivity and make toothbrushing unpleasant.
- Many children report that toothpaste tastes bad and
they are less likely to brush their teeth effectively as a
result.
- A pacifier may help with the fussiness associated with
acid reflux but it can lead to problems with tooth
alignment later on.
- Fluoride, a key component of dental health may be
lacking.
- Dental care may be overlooked in a child with
overwhelming medical needs. There may be little time and
money left to attend to dental health.
- Going to the dentist may be traumatic for a child with
oral sensitivity, a strong gag reflex, swallowing
difficulties, nausea and vomiting.
Question: What can be done to help my child with acid
reflux?
Answer: There are many things parents can do. Your child
should be seen by a dentist when his/her first tooth erupts
or by 12 months of age. The dentist will advise you on
proper brushing and preventative dental care. As soon as
your child has teeth, begin brushing or wiping the teeth
every day. Talk with your pediatrician about nutrition,
fluoride, vitamins and minerals to develop healthy teeth. If
your child needs frequent, small meals, minimize the amount
of sugar served and wash/rinse or brush teeth after each
meal. Remember to have your child rinse his/her mouth with a
small amount of water or brush after taking medicine too.
Some children with reflux need sealants on the surfaces of
the teeth or a fluoride varnish to protect the teeth. Talk
with your dentist about the best treatment for your child.
Try several kinds of toothpaste to find a favor that is
acceptable to your child with reflux. Remember, only a small
dab of toothpaste is needed. Prescription brand toothpaste
contains more fluoride and foams much less than regular
toothpaste. Make tooth-brushing fun by providing appealing
toothbrushes, cups and a low mirror so your child can see
himself/herself brushing. Pretend play may allow a child to
act out going to the dentist and lower stress.
Remember
- Schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist as
soon as the first tooth erupts. Brush or wipe teeth after
meals and reflux episodes.
- Consult your child’s pediatrician or pediatric
gastroenterologist about nutrition, diet and vitamins.
- Consult a pediatric dentist about proper tooth
brushing and fluoride treatments.
For information on pediatric dental care contact:
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry 211 East Chicago
Ave., Ste. 700
Chicago, IL, 60611
312-337-2169
www.aapd.org
American Society of Dentistry for Children
875 Michigan Ave, Suite 4040
Chicago, IL, 60611-1901
312-943-1244
Copyright PAGER Association 2005. Used
with permission. Original document can be viewed at
www.reflux.org |
