Greater Manchester Dentists Launch New Oral Health Campaign
Dentists across Greater Manchester have launched a new oral health campaign to encourage parents to take their children to the dentist.
The new initiative, which is called ‘Baby Teeth do Matter’ is being run by dentists with the aim of improving standards of oral health among the region’s children.
Figures show that in Greater Manchester at least 20 per cent of 3 year old children have decay and this rate increases to 40 per cent for 5 year old children. Dentists are eager to encourage parents to take their children for regular check-ups, which are available free of charge on the NHS, from an early age. Dentists also want to try and discourage parents from giving children sweet foods and drinks before bed and ensure that children brush their teeth using family fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
Collette Bridgman, consultant in dental public health and chairman of the Greater Manchester Local Dental Network, said that there is a great deal of room for improvement when it comes to oral health among young children.
The scheme will enable local dentists to work together to identify areas of concern and educate parents about the importance of oral hygiene and regular dental visits from an early age. Studies show that children with poor oral health are more likely to develop oral health problems in their adult life.
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