A recent report about dental health in Australia was quite alarming. In fact more than half of our children aged five and six have some decay in their baby teeth. Tooth decay is no fun and children with badly decayed teeth are having their teeth removed in hospital. Almost all decay is preventable by cleaning our teeth and by reducing the amount of sugar we eat. Unfortunately, only half of us brush our teeth twice a day and now 90% of adults have some decayed teeth. We are not setting a good example to our children. Good habits begin early and bad habits are hard to change. Are you helping your kids to have a full set of sound teeth as they grow up? Here are some tips.

• Never give your baby milk or juice to suck when going to bed
• Be a good role model by cleaning your teeth right after eating
• Clean your child’s teeth yourself so they are done properly until 10 years of age
• teach your child how to brush and check it is being done
• Emphasize rinsing the mouth
• Provide new toothbrushes regularly
• Go to the dentist regularly
• Make regular dental appointments for the kids
• Drink water instead of juice
• Choose drinks without added sugar
• Choose foods that are low in sugar for between meal snacks

Although most people use toothpaste it isn't really necessary. Salty water is effective. Show children how to brush their gums too as gum care is part of dental hygiene. My children had good strong teeth as fluoride was added to the water supply at that time. That was in the 1970's and it made a significant impact on all children's teeth until very recently. Visits to the dentist are expensive especially if fillings are required. Regular checkups are best so that trouble can be avoided. Remember that adults should visit the dentist regularly too.

Tags: education, health