A Birmingham dentist who has been treating patients for four decades has highlighted the devastating impact of the cost of living crisis on children's dental health. Dr Muslim Khoja, principal dentist at Lozells Road Dental Practice, has observed a marked decline in oral care among young patients in recent years.
Cost of living crisis affecting children's teeth
Dr Khoja, who took over the practice 40 years ago, said that poverty is the main factor behind worsening dental health. He explained that many parents cannot afford nutritious food and resort to sugary snacks and drinks to keep their children satisfied.
"The one thing I see because of poverty in the last two or three years is quite a decline in the oral care of people," he told BirminghamLive. "They can't afford to buy food for their kids and they rely on sweets and a sugary diet, which obviously causes other health issues as well, not only dental, but the dental is getting worse."
Children as young as 11 needing tooth extractions
The dentist shared alarming cases where children as young as 11 have required the removal of permanent first molars, teeth meant to last for decades. "In the last two or three years, even the young kids that come, they need the extractions of permanent, first molars that have come through. Those teeth are supposed to be there for 80 or 90 years, and they're coming out at the age of 11, 12, 13, 14. It's very strange actually, and it's very rare," he said.
Dr Khoja also noted that some toddlers have milk teeth so decayed that they have rotted down to the gum level.
Education is key
He emphasised two critical factors for maintaining children's oral health: diet and brushing. Education, he said, is crucial in teaching children proper brushing techniques. His practice regularly visits schools and nurseries to demonstrate effective oral hygiene.
"It is very hard because they can't afford it," Dr Khoja added, referring to the struggles parents face. "Just to keep the kids happy they might give them sweets, maybe drinks, whatever. It causes more damage in everything really - in health."
The dentist's comments underscore the broader impact of child poverty on health outcomes in Birmingham, where many families are struggling with rising living costs.
