Baby teeth do matter

‘Baby Teeth DO Matter’ parents encouraged to ensure that young children visit the dentist

Dentists across Rochdale borough are taking part in a new initiative called ‘Baby Teeth DO Matter’ in order to encourage parents to ensure that young children visit the dentist.

Across the region, at least 20% of three year-olds have dental decay which increases to 40% by the age of five.

Dentists will be encouraging children, and their parents, to attend the dentist regularly. They will also be delivering a clear and simple message in order to encourage a tooth-friendly bedtime routine:

1. Brush a child's teeth before bed, with a pea-sized blob of 'family fluoride' toothpaste (a smear for under threes)

2. It's best not to give your child anything to eat or drink during the last hour before bed-time, except milk or water.

Participating dental practices will also be offering a free toothbrush and free tooth paste for every child aged five years and under who have not previously been to the dentist.

Colette Bridgman, Consultant in Dental Public Health, and Chair of the Greater Manchester Local Dental Network, said; “Oral health amongst children under the age of five, in Greater Manchester, is an area that we can improve on. This scheme is an opportunity for dentists to identify those people who do not understand the importance of good dental hygiene from a young age. Children who do not look after their teeth often experience difficulties and dental problems later in life”.