Kadena observes National Children’s Dental Health Month

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Aimee McLaren
  • 18th Dental Squadron
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Members of the 18th Dental Squadron will visit Kadena school students to talk about oral health care and pass out activity booklets during the month of February in observance of National Children's Dental Health Month.

This event is designed to help children focus on the oral well-being of their teeth and promote good nutritional habits.

"Primary teeth, known as 'baby teeth', are important because they help with proper chewing and eating, help in speech development and add to an attractive appearance," said Capt. (Dr.) Laura Aeschlimann, 18th DS Children's Dental Health Month program monitor. "A child who can chew easily, speak clearly and smile confidently is a happier child."

National Children's Dental Health Month is an observance that is largely promoted by the American Dental Association. Since 1941, the observance has grown from a two-city event into a nationwide program. The Kadena Dental Clinic encourages everyone to help celebrate this event.

According to Doctor Aeschlimann, the dental squadron would like to help foster the concept that healthy habits begin early in life. Parents should start their children off on the correct path by helping them develop a daily oral home care routine. This routine should begin long before a baby's first tooth grows in.

"Healthy primary teeth allow normal development of the jaw bones and muscles, save space for permanent teeth and guide them into place," said Doctor Aeschlimann. "If a baby tooth is lost too soon, permanent teeth may come in crooked. Decayed baby teeth can cause pain, abscesses, infections and can spread to the permanent teeth. Also, a child's general health can be affected if diseased baby teeth aren't treated. Remember, some primary molars are not replaced until ages 10 to 14."

Babies' mouths and gums can be gently swiped with a piece of gauze or wet washcloth. This habit serves a twofold purpose. First, it will reduce the amount of bacteria found in a child's mouth. Secondly, it helps parents and children establish a routine that will act as a foundation for a lifetime of good oral hygiene.

A common misconception about baby teeth is that they will fall out any way so they don't have to be taken care of. Another misconception is some children are destined to have rotten teeth.

"While there are a few specific dental diseases and abnormalities that can be genetic, the vast majority of the time, cavities are due to frequent snacks that are high in carbohydrates like sugars and starches, and a lack of proper brushing," Doctor Aeschlimann said. "These poor dietary and hygiene habits may be what is actually occurring consistently in a family. Although tooth decay has declined among young children as a group, it can still be a problem for children, and even teens and adults. That's because plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, constantly forms on your teeth."

As the first tooth erupts, a small, soft toothbrush should be used to clean the area. Until your child is old enough to handle a toothbrush on his own, parents are encouraged to help their child brush. We recommend moving the toothbrush back and forth in gentle, short strokes. Make sure to reach all the surfaces of the tooth and try to remember that the gums can be very tender around erupting teeth. Fluoridated toothpaste is not recommended by either the American Dental Association or the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry until your child is 2 years or older. Always read the label carefully and follow the recommended age guidelines for each product.

Eventually, children should brush two-to-three times a day. Although children will eventually start brushing on their own, they should be supervised until the age of 7 or 8. Flossing should be incorporated into a daily routine as soon as any two teeth touch together. Fluoride rinses and other dental products may be recommended as children mature.

"As each individual child is unique, there is no specific number for how often children in general should get a dental check-up," Doctor Aeschlimann said. "It is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics that children visit a dentist within six months of their first baby tooth coming in or by their first birthday."

The doctor said a dental team will talk to the parents about how to care for their child's new teeth including brushing, fluoride use and dietary habits.

The dentist will also examine the child's teeth and gums. The timing for the child's next exam will be determined at the end of the check-up. For older children, the timing of the check-ups will be determined by the dentist based on the child's individual needs such as risk for cavities and stage of development.