THE first comprehensive study on the nation’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 for that reason that the first comprehensive study on the nation’s oral health called oral diseases in children a “silent epidemic.”

Statistics indicate that dental care is the most prevalent unmet health need among Guyanese children, although, in recent years, much has been done to prevent it. A major part of the Dental Health Service’s strategy is launching the effort to educate children and parents about the prevention of dental diseases, including periodontal diseases in children. The Community Dental Therapist programme was launched around 2005 by the Government of Guyana specifically to help bolster oral health among the population, especially in the hinterland. Remember that oral problems can impact children’s self-esteem and lead to problems with eating, speaking, and attending to learning.

When Dr Joanes Jean and I came up with the idea to begin celebrating Oral Health Month in Guyana in 2004, we decided that October was a better month, and so the first year we celebrated it in October. After that, we joined the world trend, shifting it to November. Dental health education, however, is critical every day to everyone.
Common dental problems seen in children are cavities and gingivitis. 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 40 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 before they escalate into larger, more expensive problems to treat, and 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 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-sized 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 that 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.