A FUNDAMENTAL tenet of dentistry is that good oral care is essential for children every day. In fact, the first comprehensive study on Guyana’s oral health referred to oral diseases in children as a “silent epidemic.” Thousands of school hours are lost each year to dental-related illnesses. Studies have shown that dental care remains the most prevalent unmet health need among Guyanese children, despite recent improvements in preventive care.

A major part of the Dental Health Service’s strategy is to educate children and parents about preventing dental diseases, including periodontal diseases in children. This is crucial because oral problems can impact self-esteem, cause difficulties in eating and speaking and ultimately affect learning.

Common dental problems in children include cavities and gingivitis, which are prevalent among most young patients. When these issues are not detected and treated early, they can escalate into more severe conditions, leading to unnecessary suffering. However, the good news is that most oral health problems are preventable.

It is estimated that 37 percent of children have not had a dental visit before starting school. When children do not see a dental professional early on, they miss the opportunity to address problems before they worsen. Likewise, parents lose out on valuable advice on how to instil good oral hygiene habits in their children.

Tips for parents: ensuring good oral health in children
To promote oral health, the Ministry of Health encourages parents to follow these key recommendations:
1. Establish good oral health habits early. When your child turns 12 months old, you can begin using toothpaste when brushing their teeth. However, use only a pea-sized portion and press it into the bristles to prevent ingestion. Once the gaps between your child’s teeth close, introduce flossing.
2. Be a role model. Demonstrate proper oral hygiene by practising good oral care habits yourself. Children are more likely to adopt healthy routines when they see their parents doing the same.
3. Check your child’s mouth regularly for signs of gum disease, including bleeding gums, swollen or bright red gums, receding gum lines, and persistent bad breath. Early detection can prevent more serious dental issues.
4. Ensure your child has a balanced diet. Studies show that insufficient levels of calcium and vitamin C can make children more susceptible to periodontal disease. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy, and lean proteins can help maintain strong teeth and gums.
5. Educate your child on the health risks of tobacco use. Smoking and tobacco use are major preventable risk factors for periodontal disease. Even exposure to second-hand smoke can negatively impact oral health.

Making dental visits fun and stress-free for children
Many children are anxious about visiting the dentist, but parents can take steps to make the experience more positive:
a) Start early. The younger a child visits the dentist, the better. Ideally, take them as soon as they can form full sentences so they can communicate their feelings.
b) Make the visit fun and educational. Do not wait until your child has a dental issue to take them to the dentist. Teach them about the importance of dental care in a fun and engaging way.
c) Give positive reinforcement. Bring along a comforting item, such as their favourite teddy bear, to make them feel more at ease.
d) Play “pretend dentist” at home. Have your child open their mouth while you pretend to examine their teeth. Explain that the dentist will do the same to help keep their smile healthy.
e) Let them have some control. Allow them to walk into the appointment room first to help them feel empowered and comfortable.
f) Emphasise the importance of healthy teeth. Explain that if they do not brush and care for their teeth, cavities will develop and harm their smile.
g) Create a safety signal. Stay in the room with your child during their visit and maintain a conversation with them. Avoid using threats or promising rewards, as these can create unnecessary stress.