It is never too early to start teaching little children about good dental hygiene. Oral health education is a crucial component of a child's overall health and well-being.
In the past few years before the pandemic, the New Leaf Dentists team have been regular visitors to some local child care centres on the Central Coast to teach the kids the importance of looking after their beautiful teeth from a young age. This week, our team was back on the road with our Oral Health Therapist, Tracey, and Clinical Coordinator Megan as the Tooth Fairy, with storytelling, dress-ups (the kids got to wear a blue gown, mask and gloves and pretend to be a dentist) and practising good brushing with Charlie the Chomper. It was exciting to see the kids captivated and enthusiastically participating in the activities. We’re glad that in our own little way, we’re able to contribute to the community with some oral health education for preschoolers.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO EDUCATE YOUNG CHILDREN ABOUT ORAL HEALTH?
Early formation of positive habits: By emphasising the value of dental health to preschoolers, positive habits like twice-daily brushing and regular flossing can be formed. This can assist in establishing a lifetime of good routines and prevent dental issues.
Avoiding dental issues: Dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease can hurt and make it difficult for children to eat and speak properly. Preschoolers can learn how to avoid these issues by being taught correct oral hygiene and dietary practices.
Promoting routine dental visits: For maintaining good oral health, routine dental exams are crucial. Preschoolers can cultivate a positive attitude towards dental care by being informed about the value of going to the dentist. By meeting us during our childcare visits, we start to form an association in the children’s minds that we are nice and not scary people!
Improving overall health: There is a connection between good oral health and general health and wellbeing. Preschoolers can learn how to take care of their bodies and form good habits that will help them throughout their lives by being taught at an early age.
We encourage parents and carers of young children to be proactive in ensuring that good oral habits are established as young as possible. If this is something you have been wondering about, why not give our clinic in Erina, Central Coast a call on (02) 4367-6222. We’re happy to talk you through the process and help your little one start a positive dental health experience.