News

Good habits begin early

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jacob Morgan
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  In honor of Children's Dental Health Month, Airmen from the 436th Dental Squadron have been informing children on the health risks of bad hygiene, and the rewards of proper dental care.

The Airmen visited the Major George S. Welch Elementary School on base Feb. 10, and gave an informative presentation to Sue Taraila's 1st grade class.

They chose a 1st grade class because the students typically are between the ages of 6 and 7, said Staff Sgt. James Brown, 436 DS noncommissioned officer in charge of preventative dentistry.

Normally, at the age of 7 children begin to lose their baby teeth and permanent teeth begin to grow.

"We are trying to teach them the right way to take care of their teeth," said Sergeant Brown.

The presentation began with a video featuring a dinosaur named Dudley who received a dental kit. The movie was followed by basic questions of flossing and brushing and a quick demonstration with participation from the class.

Charts were brought to the front of the class with stickers of good and bad foods for teeth. The students placed stickers of the foods they thought were good or bad.

Before the Airmen left, dental kits, much like Dudley's kit, were handed out to the class.
"Setting a precedent at a young age is important," said Dr. (Capt.) DeAndra Price, 436 DS general dentist. "Children will take the values of proper dental care to their permanent teeth."

Common roadblocks children run into at this age are typical of any other health issues, said Doctor Price. Eating better, such as the basic food groups, especially whole grains, and less sugary drinks not only help with whole-body health but it transfers to the teeth as well.

"Many foods can cause tooth decay, for example, foods high in carbohydrates, such as some fruits, sodas, peanut butter, crackers, and potato chips are culprits for decay," said Doctor Price. "Drinking carbonated soft drinks regularly can contribute to the erosion of tooth enamel which leads to cavities."

However, there are ways to prevent erosion and cavities with simple daily routines.
Brushing teeth thoroughly after meals, regular flossing, and fluoride treatments combined with a healthy balanced diet are the best ways to prevent tooth decay, said Doctor Price.

An article published by the Academy of General Dentistry recommends school children should rinse their mouth with water after meals, especially at school. This leaves their mouth with a reduced sugar and acid content.

"At home, parents should encourage their children to drink tap water," said Doctor Price. If parents choose to purchase bottled water, be sure it is fluoridated to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities in the future.

Children should be supervised when they brush and floss and they should brush for at least two minutes

"A good rule of thumb is when the child is able to tie their shoes, they can brush their teeth alone. Tooth decay can be best prevented with regular dental visits just after the child's first tooth erupts," said Doctor Price. "Brushing teeth twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste, regular flossing, and decreased intake of foods with high sugar content are great ways to significantly decrease the amount of decay-causing bacteria present in children's mouths."