A common health problem seen in our community is Children’s Tooth Decay a progressive but preventative disease. This month, we remind you of a few recommendations to keep your children’s teeth healthy. Remember, it starts even before the first teeth come in by starting the routine of wiping the gums and tongue once a day with a soft, clean, and wet cloth. Expect the first tooth in between the first 6-10months of age. The first tooth means introducing the first toothbrush and more than one tooth means introducing the first floss. Likely the new recommendations state that first dentist appointment should be at 1 year of age while previous recommendations stated 3 years of age. From then forward, remember to practice examining the integrity of children’s teeth periodically, by lifting the front lips, at least once a month. Fun ways to establish these routines can include singing and brushing along with your children 2 times a day in the morning and the night. This will motivate them to build these healthy habits.
The importance of those baby teeth are their role in your children’s nutrition, speech development, and growth development. Baby teeth are also place holders for permanent teeth which is why parents should help their children brush their teeth until 8 years of age when they have developed the appropriate coordination skills. The last baby tooth is lost around the age of 12-13years of age. This is important because oral health inferences overall health.
Sources Cited: Oral health education for young children and their families. (2019). Retrieved from cavityfreekids.org/
By Yeny Romero
Community Outreach and Enrollment Specialist
Berks Community Health Center