This year, World Oral Health Day (WOHD) falls on 20 March, which coincides with our dental practice’s 6th year anniversary. We take great pride in our family-oriented approach to dentistry, with a team consisting of mum, dad, son, and daughter, and even our uncle who provides cosmetic injectables. We’re thankful that we get to celebrate both six years in business and WOHD with you, and wanted to do so by discussing the importance of oral health and early education.
Why Early Education Is Vital for Oral Health
According to Dr. Medhat, the increasing consumption of sugary foods and drinks is leading to decay and overcrowding, which require orthodontic treatments later in life. Therefore, it is crucial to educate parents early on about the importance of oral hygiene and preventive measures to avoid future dental problems. As the first teeth start to come in for children around 6 months, we recommend bringing them in with their parents to sit in the chair and get familiar with the dental environment.
The Importance of Regular Checkups for Kids
From the age of two, we advise parents to bring their children in for regular checkups to ensure their oral health is in good condition. During these appointments, our team can detect any early signs of dental problems and offer preventive measures to address them. By bringing children in for regular checkups, we can establish good oral hygiene habits and make them feel comfortable with dental visits, which will benefit them in the long run.
Tips for Early Brushing and Good Hygiene Habits
As parents, you can help your children establish good hygiene habits early on by making brushing fun and setting a good example by brushing alongside them. It is recommended to use a soft-bristled brush and fluoridated toothpaste to brush twice a day. We also encourage flossing and interdental cleaning at least once a day to remove plaque and debris from between the teeth.
WOHD: Preserving a Lifetime of Smiles
This year’s WOHD theme is #MouthProud, which encourages people of all ages to take preventive action to preserve a lifetime of smiles.
We support this message and have provided some tips to promote good oral health, including limiting sugary and acidic drinks and foods, eating more fibrous vegetables and fruits, drinking more water, and avoiding smoking. We also recommend wearing a custom-fitted night guard if you grind or clench your teeth.
As a family business, we take great pride in providing high-quality dental care to our patients. We believe that early education and preventive measures are crucial for maintaining good oral health and preventing future dental problems. By celebrating World Oral Health Day, we hope to raise awareness of the importance of oral health and encourage our patients to take proactive measures to preserve their smiles for a lifetime.