The impact of junk food advertising on kids’ general health is something every parent is worried about. Issues like childhood obesity and behavior changes from consuming junk food are common these days and have been discussed a lot on media.
The common myth is junk food consumption causes obesity and other problems but what many might not realize though, is excessive junk food advertising and consumption has a significant effect on the endemic tooth decay in children.
Unhealthy food advertisements on our TVs
A recent study shows that kids see twice as much unhealthy food advertisements versus healthy food ads.
Advertisements by the latest food delivery startups like Swiggy and Zomato are mostly showing junk food in their ads which creates a lasting impression on kids minds. Also, ads by sugary drinks package food companies peaked during popular viewing times for kids which creates an alarming situation of rising childhood health issues.
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Statistics
Last National Oral Health Survey stated that DMFT(Decayed/Missing/Filled Teeth ) index score for Indian children was around 2 out of 10 and caries prevalence was increasing with age from 51.9% to 63.1% in 5–15 years of age group, respectively.
How Good Family Dental Care can change the scenario
So, what is this “good family dental care” and how will it help you to combat the effects of junk food ads against your child’s health?
Below are the steps to good family dental care.
- The first and most important step is to find a good dentist around you and schedule regular visits to the dentist with your whole family (Preferably once in 6 months). Prevention is the best way to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
- Set time when you brush your teeth and make sure your kids are there too. When kids see their parents and siblings brushing in the morning and evening they are very likely to adopt similar habits themselves. Try to make it fun for them.
- We cannot control what comes on TV, so stopping kids from seeing junk food advertising is very tricky. But some general education from parents about healthy eating and staying active are both great ways to encourage healthy lifestyle choices which would effectively lessen the desire for junk foods.
So, these are a few recommended steps by the experts for good family dental care. By following these steps you can keep your family healthy and also save some grants on medical expenses.
Also read: Pediatric Dentistry – Facts To Consider
