At what ages do dentists see the most decay?
A. Rapid growth is the biggest predictable stress one undergoes. Tooth decay has two peaks of activity in rapidly growing youngsters. Most tooth decay occurs during the massive pubertal growth spurt. Low bone density, scoliosis, dandruff, acne, and all kinds of irritable and inflammatory behavior, growing pains, as well as arthritic problems of the hip, knee, ankle, and heel peak at this apogee of growth-induced stress. The smaller growth spurt (occurs at ages 5-7 when the incisors are shed and replaced) is the secondary peak of decay. Childbearing is also a major stressor. Tooth decay and gum disease are prevalent during and after pregnancy. This pregnant growth state creates a high demand for nutrients. All kinds of irritable and inflammatory states occur during and after pregnancy. Post-natal tetany syndrome also expresses itself as TMJ problems, myofascial pain, nocturnal leg cramps, post-natal blues, depression or even psychotic behavior. The next major burst of decay activity occ
