GOOD oral health begins long before a child learns to smile for a photograph.
The condition of a child’s teeth and gums can influence eating, speaking, sleeping, school attendance and overall well-being.
Yet dental problems remain among the most common health concerns affecting children, making early oral care an important responsibility shared by parents, caregivers, schools and health professionals.
One of the most important steps is starting oral care early. Even before a baby’s first tooth appears, parents can gently clean the gums with a clean, soft cloth. Once the first tooth erupts, it should be brushed with a soft-bristled toothbrush and an appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste.
As children grow, brushing should become part of their daily routine. Dentists generally recommend brushing twice a day, particularly before bedtime. Young children, however, often lack the coordination needed to brush effectively on their own. Parents should supervise brushing and, when necessary, finish the job for them.
Fluoride is particularly important because it strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. Children should use fluoride toothpaste appropriate for their age, following dental advice and recommendations. Parents should also teach children to spit rather than swallow toothpaste.
Diet plays another major role in children’s oral health. Frequent consumption of sugary drinks, candies, cakes and other sweetened foods can increase the risk of tooth decay. What matters is not only how much sugar a child consumes but also how frequently the teeth are exposed to it.
Water is generally a better everyday beverage than soft drinks, sweetened juices and other sugary drinks.
Regular dental visits are essential. A child’s first dental examination can help identify developing problems and allow parents to receive advice about brushing, diet, fluoride and other preventive measures. Dental visits should not begin only when a child complains of tooth pain. Prevention and early treatment can spare children discomfort and reduce the likelihood of more complicated dental procedures later.
Parents should also pay attention to habits that may affect developing teeth and jaws. Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use, particularly beyond the early childhood years, can contribute to changes in tooth alignment and the shape of the mouth. A dentist can advise families about when and how to address these habits.
Untreated tooth decay can have consequences beyond the mouth. Pain may make it difficult for a child to eat or concentrate in school, while severe infection can require urgent treatment. Missing or damaged teeth can also affect speech and confidence.
Schools can contribute by reinforcing good oral hygiene and providing children with age-appropriate health education. Community dental programs can be particularly valuable for families who have difficulty obtaining regular dental care.
Children learn oral health habits largely through the adults around them. When parents make brushing, healthy food choices and dental visits routine rather than occasional activities, children are more likely to carry those habits into adulthood.
Healthy teeth are not simply a cosmetic concern. For children, they are part of the foundation for nutrition, communication, learning and quality of life.
Investing in oral health early can help prevent avoidable pain and establish habits that last for decades.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim, Ed. D., is the former Associate Dean of the College of Dentistry, University of the East; former Dean, College of Dentistry, National University; Past President and Honorary Fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy; Honorary Fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists; Honorary Life Member of the Thai Association of Dental Implantology; and Founding Chairman of the Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.
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Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI, graduated Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of the Philippines, College of Dentistry, Manila, 2011; Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management, De la Salle University, Manila, 2002; and Master of Science (MSc.) in Oral Implantology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, 2019. He is an Associate Professor; Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists; and Fellow, Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail limdentalcenter@gmail.com./PN
