Asthma May Put People at a Higher Risk of Tooth Decay

According to a recent Brazilian research study that included 160 children, ages 3 to 15, some children with Asthma may get more cavities.  Half of the children in the study had asthma, consequently the other half did not.

The Brazilian researchers based the risk for tooth decay on the following factors:

• "Levels of Streptococcus mutans, the bacteria that causes tooth decay

• The children's oral hygiene habits

• A history of tooth decay, as measured by the number of decayed teeth and teeth with fillings"

The study showed that of the children in the 3-6 age group, those who had severe asthma had more tooth decay than healthy children.  Children with mild asthma did not have more decay.  There were no differences in the decay rates in the 7-10 year old age group.  It was found however, that children in the oldest age group with asthma had more decay in their permanent teeth than did children without asthma.

Source: InteliHealth News Service