CHILD OBESITY
As parents, having your child’s best interest at heart is always at the forefront of your mind. Making sure
they are well cared for, well fed and always healthy. One part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle is ensuring
there is ample amount of exercise and activity to stimulate the children physically and mentally. With the
rise of technology it has been more challenging for parents to engage their children in physical activity. In
turn, this leads to more children being overweight. Not only is this weight problem affecting children’s
health but recently, there have been findings that link periodontal disease (gingivitis) to obesity in
children.
TAKING A CLOSER LOOK
It has already been established that there is a link between
adult obesity and periodontal disease. Since researchers have
confirmed this information they thought it would be worthwhile to
a look at the association between childhood obesity and periodontal
disease. Researchers at the University of Buenos Aires School found
that there was a strong relationship between overweight children
and inflammation in their gums, the beginning stages of periodontal
disease. Additionally, they found that there is a strong relationship between gingivitis and children who are
insulin resistant. Insulin resistance is a concern in young children because this means their bodies are not
properly recognizing and utilizing the insulin hormone which is activated when there is glucose (sugar)
released in the bloodstream. These bodily reactions usually go undetected and can lead to the first signs of
type II diabetes.
LOOKING FOR GUM DISEASE
Some of the first signs of periodontal disease (gingivitis) are puffy, red gums. One element that obesity and
periodontal disease have in common is inflammation. We know that it is somewhat uncommon for
children to have inflammation circulating in their bodies. If a child is overweight this puts them at risk for
having inflammation in their bodies. Consequently, it would be wise for a doctor/general dentist to check
the child for gingivitis (periodontal disease) if the child is seemly overweight. Consistent inflammation is
one reason why researchers presume that the two are associated.
PREVENTING OBESITY
The best way to help your child maintain a healthy lifestyle is to encourage them to go outside with friends
and siblings to play. Alternatively, encouraging your children to snack on fruits and veggies will aid the
children in maintaining a healthy weight, which in turn, will help their oral health.
If you have any questions regarding your child’s dental health it is best to contact your general dentist for
an exam. If you have more specific questions related to your child’s dental health we are here to help! The
employees of Joseph R. Nemeth & Associates are dedicated to ensuring our patients receive the utmost
care and are equipped with all the information they need to successfully maintain a healthy mouth for
them and their families. Feel free to reach out to us by visiting our website or by calling the office at
(248)-357-3100.
Disclaimer
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or
treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding
medical conditions or any questions at all regarding Periodontal disease and obesity.