ISLAMABAD, Oct 20: Dental cavities (tooth decay) are the most prevalent chronic childhood disease in the country.

It is five times more common than asthma, and almost 50 per cent of children aged between 12 and 15 have two teeth involved in the disease process.

This was stated by participants of the ‘restorative dentistry symposium’ organised by the Islamabad Medical and Dental College on Saturday.

Dentist Dr Ghulam Akbar said: “Most people think that diseases related to teeth are unimportant. We have to create awareness because those without teeth are unable to enjoy life.”

He said dental caries were age related, and the average number of affected teeth is almost 18 by the age of 65.

Dental surgeon of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Dr Ansar Maqsood, said hygienic teeth could help people avoid diseases of the throat and stomach.—A Reporter