A new report by the Centre for Disease Control shows 81.3 percent of parents are not brushing their children’s teeth as early as recommended. Researchers at the CDC studied data from over 5000 children and teens and compiled an alarming series of statistics.
It was found:
- 80 percent of parents were not brushing their baby’s teeth as early as recommended.
- One third of children only brush once a day
- 40 percent of children use too much toothpaste
- Children’s first dental visit was left for too long.
The Australian Dental Association recommends:
- Babies see the dentist before their first birthday.
- Only a pea-sized amount of reduced fluoride toothpaste is used for children 2 years to 6 years of age.
- Only a pea-sized amount of adult toothpaste for children over 7 years of age.
- Brushing children’s teeth twice a day. Parents need to assist children with their dental care until approximately 11 years of age.
We believe early intervention avoids many potential problems and allows us to anticipate future dental needs for children. Please see our website for more information regarding children’s dentistry, the Australian Dental Association information page:
https://www.ada.org.au/Your-Dental-Health/Home or, for more tailored information, ask your dentist at your next visit.
We have had a busy month of April with Easter, Anzac Day and next week it is Dental Congress. We all had a lovely Easter including time spent with family and friends, travel and home chores to name a few things. Dr Michelle Stone is away on holiday during the end of May and the start of June, however Dr Catherine Chow will be working some extra time to take care of you should you need care. Dr Stone is heading to China for the football again-GO POWER, and then on to Vietnam to explore the region. We look forward to her stories on her return.
See you soon in the clinic.
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