According to the American Dental Association, this year’s theme is “Healthy Habits for a Healthy Smile!” This is a reminder to caregivers that the habits and attitudes established at an early age have a significant impact on a child’s chances of maintaining good oral health throughout his or her life.
Tooth decay is one of the most common childhood chronic diseases in the United States. Historically, approximately 20 to 25 percent of Humboldt County children enter elementary school with untreated cavities, according to kindergarten oral health assessment data. The good news is that tooth decay is preventable and it’s not too late to make your oral health a priority.
For children, establishing and following daily oral hygiene habits increases the chances of preventing cavities. The Brush, Book, Bed campaign encourages caregivers to create a consistent nightly routine that focuses on three essential healthy habits that promote children’s physical and mental health: Established by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to Setting a routine can be difficult, but AAP has resources to make it fun, including age-appropriate books, teeth-brushing games, and tips on how to soothe yourself at bedtime. These can be found at www.healthychildren.org.
Tooth decay is a cause for concern and action at any age. According to the AAP, many parents and caregivers think cavities in baby teeth are okay because they will be lost anyway. Unfortunately, cavities in baby teeth have been shown to have a negative impact on permanent teeth, leading to future dental problems. Commercials, books, and videos often depict obedient children happily brushing their own teeth without adult intervention. The American Dental Association recommends that caregivers assist with tooth brushing until age 8. Children who brush their own teeth only brush what they can see and reach. Caregivers can reduce the bacteria that cause cavities by helping children brush their teeth in the back of the mouth, where cavities are most likely to occur.
A common “term” associated with dental health is “fear.” It is not uncommon for a caregiver who has had a negative or painful experience with the dentist to avoid taking her family to the dentist. Fortunately, dentistry continues to advance, and drilling for fillings can become a thing of the past. The University of Southern California School of Dentistry says today’s dental students are trained in “microdentistry,” which includes minimally invasive dental techniques that focus on stopping cavities early without drilling. This is done using preventive measures such as applying sealants to the back teeth and using silver diamine fluoride to slow the progression of cavities, rather than using a drill to remove cavities. Masu. These advances in dental care make early and frequent dental visits even more important for children and can be a way for caregivers to provide children with a less traumatic experience. Individuals and families seeking dental care can call 707-476-4949 to request the Smile Her Humboldt Her Family Program to arrange an appointment or transportation.
Finally, there is one simple and important tool to combat pediatric dental disease. It’s about making sure everyone has their own toothbrush and dental supplies. In partnership with America’s Tooth Fairy, the Humboldt County Dental Advisory Group collaborates with local dental offices, businesses, and community organizations to host a local “Smile Drive” to collect dental supplies for children and families with limited access. ” was hosted. Any member of the community can become an Honorary Tooth Fairy by donating toothbrushes and other dental hygiene products to the “Smile Drive” effort during February and March. A complete list of drop-off locations is available at www.smilehumboldt.com/2024-smile-drive.
Sarah Vogel is the Oral Health Program Coordinator for the Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program in the DHHS Division of Public Health.
