SUVA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Children's dental health in Fiji is facing growing threats due to frequent consumption of junk food, according to local health officials.
Speaking on Tuesday, Joseph Jacksam, the Dental Officer at Lomaloma Subdivisional Hospital, emphasized the dangers posed by sugary and acidic snacks.
"Many junk foods are loaded with sugar and acid, which cling to teeth, promoting plaque buildup and enamel erosion," Jacksam said, as reported on the Ministry of Health's Facebook page.
He urged parents to reconsider giving their children unhealthy snacks and to offer healthier alternatives like fruits instead.
Jacksam expressed concern over the increasing number of children suffering from tooth loss, which he linked to poor dietary habits.
He explained that the high sugar content in junk food is converted by bacteria in the mouth into acid that attacks the tooth's protective enamel, leading to cavities and decay.
To combat this growing issue, he advised parents to establish strong oral hygiene routines for their children, including brushing twice daily and flossing.
Echoing these concerns, Kadavu Dental Officer Mijieli Gaunavinaka also highlighted a troubling increase in the number of children undergoing permanent tooth extractions.
He attributed the rise in cases to diets high in sugar, limited access to dental care, and a lack of awareness about proper oral hygiene.
Gaunavinaka called on parents and communities to prioritize regular dental check-ups and instill better hygiene habits in children. ■