Doctors Want Parents To Keep Their Children's Baby Teeth Because They Can Predict Autism

Sep 19, 2018

Some parents keep baby teeth as a cute reminder of when their child was small. It turns out that baby teeth can actually help diagnose health problems as well. These teeth could help diagnose autism by showing how a child metabolizes metals.

Throughout the world, millions of children are diagnosed with autism every year. Avigael never expected to be part of that statistic. After she gave birth to twins, she could tell that her son, Naftali, was different. Her suspicions were confirmed after she took him to the doctor. Neftali was diagnosed with a moderate to severe form of autism.

Luckily, Naftali was diagnosed early. Now, he is 12 years old and is a part of a standard classroom. Since he was diagnosed early, he was able to get the right behavioral and physical interventions. According to the experts, early interventions are important for helping autistic children adjust to normal life. With an early intervention, these children can get the support they need to navigate day-to-day life.

Baby teeth have recently made the news because of stem cells. Each tooth contains stem cells that can be stored away for years or decades. While scientists do not have the technology to use these stem cells yet, they could one day be used to treat medical problems. These baby teeth have to be stored away properly to prevent the stem cells from degrading.

Other than stem cells, baby teeth have another medical use. They could help predict which children will develop autism. In the video, researchers from New York City's Mount Sinai discuss how baby teeth can help diagnose autism.

In the United States, 2.41 percent of children are on the autism spectrum. By using baby teeth, researchers can discover how the child's body metabolizes metals. Over time, this new technique could be used to diagnose autism early. With earlier prevention, children can get the treatment that they need and enjoy a better life.

The new research focuses on how the body metabolizes metals. This metabolism affects neurodevelopment in children. In young children, a new layer of the tooth is added every day. This layer can show which chemicals are present and is similar to a tree's growth rings.

In previous studies, researchers found that zinc and copper levels were different in children with autism. As a result of this research, scientists have managed to make an algorithm that is 90 percent successful in diagnosing autism based on baby teeth.

If you were amazed by the new research on baby teeth and autism, make sure to spread awareness about it!

Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation with your doctor. Your health is important to us!