|
|
|
|
|
|
| Webmaster |
| |
| |
The Annual Conference of the Irish Dental Association has today heard details of the high incidence of tooth decay amongst young children in Ireland. According to Dr. Rosarii McCafferty, President of the Public Dental Surgeons Group, the incidence of tooth decay amongst different age groups is as follows:
Incidence of Tooth Decay in Young Children:
At 5 years of age
Between 37% and 55% suffer tooth decay
At 12 years of age
Over 50% suffer tooth decay
At 15 years of age
Approximately 75% suffer tooth decay
Dr. McCafferty warned that recent cutbacks in public dental schemes would reduce the number of school going children that can be seen by a public dentist and this would lead to worsening standards of oral health amongst children; ?Unfortunately, the public dental service has suffered badly from the recruitment embargos imposed by the HSE over the last number of years. We are aware that in some dental areas, access for children to preventive dental services has been severely limited due to loss of staff. This means that the problem is simply pushed into the future, when it will be more costly and complex to treat.?
McCafferty advises parents that a few simple tips can help prevent decay.
Top tips for good oral health in children
Diet
Keep sugary foods / drinks to mealtimes only
Choose healthy snacks such as cheese or fresh fruit
Milk and water are the best drinks
Use a free flow or open lidded cup from 6 months of age onwards
Feeding bottles should be discouraged from about the age of 12 months
Ask for sugar free medicine
Toothbrushing
Choose a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles
Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears
Help children under 7 years of age with toothbrushing
Brush teeth twice a day especially at night using a gentle scrub
Toothpaste
No fluoride toothpaste for children under 2 years of age (unless advised by dental team)
Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for children over 2 years of age
Spit out toothpaste ? no need to rinse
|
| |
|
|
