Smile Guardians: How to Protect Your Child's Dental Health
How to Protect Your Child's Dental Health and Prevent Tooth Decay
In recent years, there's been a growing concern about the prevalence of tooth decay among young children in our country. The good news is that tooth decay is entirely preventable, and it doesn't take a Herculean effort to safeguard your child's dental health.
Recent surveys have shone a spotlight on the issue, revealing some alarming statistics. In the South East of England, a staggering 25% of five-year-olds are battling tooth decay, affecting an average of three to four teeth. Nationally, 12% of three-year-olds have already experienced tooth decay, a problem that can have ripple effects on both their health and overall well-being.
The impact of poor dental health extends beyond the child; it affects their entire family. Children suffering from toothache or in need of dental treatment may experience pain, infections, and difficulties with basic activities like eating, sleeping, and socialising. Surprisingly, research shows that tooth extractions are the leading cause of hospital admissions for children aged 5 to 9.
Startlingly, a quarter of five-year-olds enter school with tooth decay nationwide. This not only disrupts their education but can also force parents to take time off work for dental appointments. What's more, children who experience tooth decay in their baby teeth are up to four times more likely to face the same issue with their adult teeth.
The good news is that there are straightforward steps you can take to prevent this decay. The most crucial measure is reducing the intake of sugary foods and drinks. This includes everything from processed fruit juices and smoothies to dried fruits. Ideally, children should avoid sugary snacks and drinks between meals and opt for water or milk instead, along with savoury snacks or whole fruits.
For babies, breast milk or appropriate formula should be their sole source of nourishment for the first six months. After six months, stick to breast or formula milk and offer cooled, boiled water in bottles.
Next, ensure that your child brushes their teeth twice a day – once before bed and once at another time during the day. Use age-appropriate toothpaste that contains fluoride, and supervise your child's brushing until they are at least seven years old. Start brushing their teeth as soon as their first tooth emerges, gradually letting them take over as they become more proficient. Up to age three, apply only a smear of toothpaste to the brush; from three to six years, a small pea-sized amount is sufficient. After brushing, encourage children to spit out the toothpaste rather than rinsing with water. Electric toothbrushes are a great option for children from the age of three, with many manufacturers offering models designed specifically for young users.
The third essential step in protecting your child's teeth is regular dental check-ups. They should start visiting the dentist as soon as their first teeth appear, typically around six months old. Even though young children may not always be cooperative during dental visits, it's essential to acclimate them to the dental environment and get them accustomed to seeing the dentist.
By following these simple steps, you can help ensure your child doesn't fall victim to tooth decay and sets the stage for a lifetime of good oral health.
1 - Public Health England’s (PHE) 2015 national dental epidemiology survey of 5 year old children.
2 - Public Health England’s (PHE) 2013 Oral Health Survey of 3 year olds.
3 - Public Health England’s (PHE) Guidance Health matters: child dental health 2017