Oral health in children

THIS month is Oral Health Month in the United States, and being here in the US for a short visit, I have been witnessing the tremendous emphasis placed on children. The general message is that good oral care is critical every day in children. The first comprehensive study on Guyana’s oral health called oral diseases in children a “silent epidemic.” Thousands of school hours are lost each year to dental-related illnesses. In fact, it was pointed out that dental care is the most prevalent unmet health need among Guyanese children, although in recent years, much has been done in the preventive aspect. A major part of the Dental Health Service’s strategy is launching the effort to educate children and parents about preventing dental diseases, including periodontal diseases in children. This is the most important factor because oral problems can impact children’s self-esteem and lead to problems eating, speaking and attending to learning.

Common dental problems in children are cavities and gingivitis, which are found in most of our children. When these problems are not caught early and treated, they can develop into more severe problems and cause unnecessary suffering. However, much of the time, oral problems are avoidable problems.

It is estimated that 37 percent of children have not had a dental visit before starting school. When children don’t see dental professionals, they miss the opportunity to have problems caught early before they escalate into larger, more expensive problems to treat. Parents miss the opportunity to learn how to promote good oral habits in their children.

In addition to advising regular dental visits that include a periodontal examination, the Health Ministry offers these tips to parents to help ensure a good oral health in children:
1. Establish good oral health habits early. When your child is 12 months old, you can begin using toothpaste when brushing his or her teeth. However, use only a pea size portion on the brush and press it into the bristles so your child won’t eat it. And, when the gaps between your child’s teeth close, it’s important to start flossing.

2. Serve as a good role model by practising good oral health care habits yourself.

3. Check your child’s mouth for any signs of gum disease, including bleeding gums, swollen and bright, red gums, gums that are receding away from the teeth and bad breath.

4. Make sure your child consumes a balanced diet. Studies have shown insufficient levels of calcium and vitamin c make people more susceptible to periodontal disease.

5. Educate your child regarding the health risks of using tobacco products. Smoking is the number one preventable risk factor for periodontal disease.

If you are having difficulty getting your kid excited about the trip to the dentist, here is a simple guide.
a. Start early. The younger, the better. When they start to speak sentences is the ideal time.
b. Make the visit fun and educational. Do not wait until they have a dental problem. Tell them about how important it is to care for their teeth.
c. Give positive reinforcement. Bring along an item such as their favourite teddy.
d. Play Pretend Dentist. Have them open their mouth and pretend to examine their teeth. Tell them that the dentist will do the same.
e. Give your kids some control. Let them lead the way into the appointment room.
f. Emphasise the importance of healthy teeth. Explain that if they do not brush, cavities will destroy their teeth.
g. Create a Safety Signal. Stay in the room and converse with them. Never threaten nor promise a reward.

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