Teach children good dental habits early

By KATHERINE HOBY

Adults can choose to look after their own teeth, but what about children?

What are the best habits to encourage, and what services are available?

The school dental service still exists and children are entitled to free dental care until the age of 18, provided they are at an educational facility.

Parents should enrol their children at the nearest school dental clinic when they are between 6 months and 1 year old.

Some schools may not have a resident dental nurse/dental therapist, so ask the school when the nurse will be present.

In rural areas, the clinic may visit in a caravan or van. Again, just ask at the school for details.

Good habits start young, so parents should be active in encouraging dental health from an early age. Imitation is the best way to teach a child how to brush.

Children as young as 2 and 3 years can learn to brush by watching.

By the age of 10, children should be able to floss by themselves.

Parents need to limit sweet drinks and snacks given to small children. Follow these tips supplied by the Dental Health Foundation:

* Limit frequency of snacks.

* Give your child healthy snacks such as unsalted popcorn or carrots.

* Beware of foods that stay in your mouth for long periods of time, such as hard sweets or soft drinks. They give plaque more time to produce acids.

* Beware starchy foods. They can do as much harm as sugary foods.