Parents urged to teach children about dental health from birth
Oral health is extremely important, yet many parents are unaware of the dangers of poor oral health and are failing to teach their children good oral hygiene habits.
Children rely on their parents to look after their teeth and gums when they are too young to do it themselves and experts are encouraging parents to teach their children about oral health as early as possible. At first, this will involve brushing children’s teeth but when the children are older this should invol
ve educating them about healthy eating, encouraging them to brush their teeth independently and taking them to visit their dentist on a regular basis.
Research has consistently shown that children that are taught to look after their teeth and gums from an early age are more likely to enjoy good oral health throughout their childhood and adult years. Children who are introduced to their dentist at an early age are also less likely to suffer from dental anxiety and dental phobia. Parents are encouraged to make the most of the great kid’s products on offer; many leading brands use children’s favourite television characters to decorate their products and this can make children excited about brushing their teeth.
Experts are also urging women to take care of their teeth and gums throughout pregnancy, as studies have shown that maternal gum disease can cause complications during pregnancy and childbirth and can cause premature birth and even stillbirth. NHS dental care is free for pregnant women and dentists recommend that expectant mothers attend at least one check-up during this time.
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