Happy teeth, happy kids and happier parents! Did you know that despite widespread access to quality healthcare in Singapore, almost 50 per cent of children experience tooth decay by the age of six?
The prevalence of tooth decay among children remains alarmingly high. Almost 50 per cent of children experience tooth decay, also known as dental caries by the age of six, with the majority (90 per cent) of these cases going untreated.
In severe cases, this can result in hospitalisation or the need for dental procedures under general anaesthesia. Data from the Health Promotion Board shows a concerning increase in caries prevalence among 7-year-olds, rising from 48.1 per cent in 2010 to 53.1 per cent in 2016.
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We paid a visit the Paediatric Dental Clinic at NUCOHS (National University Centre for Oral Health) to learn about a new programme for preschoolers and their parents.
We also learnt some important ways to have healthier teeth.
New Preschool Programme at Paediatric Dental Clinic at NUCOHS
NUCOHS has started a brand-new programme where it partners preschools to organise quarterly visits, aimed at nurturing a positive association with dental visits amongst the young and helping them feel at ease with the dentist as a person they can trust.
During the programme, preschoolers will learn about dental health through storytelling, games, even a hands-on experience in the treatment room, on a dental chair and examining dental instruments.
Parents and caregivers receive expert advice from NUCOHS clinicians on common dental issues and the appropriate ways to maintain their children’s oral health.
Preschools interested in these visits can indicate their interest with NUCOHS regarding future visits.
The preschool visit programme is just one part of NUCOHS’s ongoing efforts to raise public awareness of paediatric dentistry. Since 2014, the NUCOHS Paediatric Dental Clinic has started collaborating with the Department of Neonatology at the Khoo Teck Puat – National University Children’s Medical Institute at the National University Hospital (NUH) to reach out to young parents on infant oral health via bi-monthly sessions.
5 Steps to Healthier Teeth, Starting from Baby Teeth
In addition, here are some steps that parents can take to help their children have healthier teeth.
The first baby teeth can appear between 5 to 10 months young, and 20 baby teeth would have erupted by 3 years old. Baby teeth are the foundations of developing adult teeth. Untreated baby teeth can affect the development of adult teeth. Early loss of baby teeth can result in space problems in future too.
Thus, it is essential to minimise tooth decay in children.
Tooth decay in children can result in pain, poor aesthetics, facial swelling and high costs fixing the problems. Dental caries may also affect the development of adult teeth.
The good news is tooth decay can be prevented!
How can parents and preschools help children have healthier teeth?
1. Good Oral Hygiene with Toothbrushing Twice Daily
Firstly, children should be brushing their teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once before bedtime.
2. Tips for Toothbrushing
a) Pick an age-appropriate toothbrush with soft bristles, small head, long and large handle. Replace the toothbrush when it is out of shape and bristles splay. Toddlers and preschoolers might need help with teeth brushing.
b) Parents can hold toddlers with heads on the laps of the adults or caregivers while brushing their teeth. For preschoolers, they can sit or stand upright while the adults brush their teeth while standing or seated behind their child.
It is important to get into a suitable position for good access and visibility.
c) Be systematic in toothbrushing. Brush in an orderly manner, brush all surfaces of each tooth 8 to 10 times in a scrubbing motion. Brush at the gums too!
d) Take at least 2 minutes to brush.
e) Make toothbrushing fun. Role-playing with a doll or soft toy, let your child brush the teeth of the toy. Or reverse roles for parent and child, let the child brush your teeth might be fun ways to encourage the child to brush their teeth.
f) For infants with no teeth, use a wash cloth or finger brush to wipe the gum pads.
3. Ensure adequate fluoride exposure at home
Fluoride helps to remineralise tooth, exert antibacterial properties and prevent further decay. Use the right amount of toothpaste containing at least 1000 ppm fluoride.
4. Avoid unhealthy feeding practices
After brushing teeth, children should not go to bed with a bottle of milk nor should the child be breastfed without brushing the teeth. Transition from a bottle to a cup at 1 year old.
5. Limit frequency of sugar consumption
Avoid sweet, sticky snacks and drinks because there are hidden sugars. Limit the frequency of snacks and keep treats to mealtimes.
Dr Sim Chien Joo, Head of the Division of Paediatric Dentistry at NUCOHS, said: “Effective early prevention is crucial in significantly reducing severe tooth decay among young children. While individual preventive measures such as fluoride use and regular dental care are essential, their success hinge on comprehensive education directed at parents, caregivers and educators, coupled with diligent adherence to recommended oral health practices.”
Dr Sim added: “The foundation of a lifetime of healthy teeth begins in childhood. Healthy teeth and gums contribute to overall well-being, affecting a child’s ability to eat, speak and even smile confidently. At NUCOHS, we are mindful that good oral health care for the young encompasses a holistic approach that involves not only the child, but also the parents and educators. We are excited to expand our efforts through initiatives such as the visit programme, to educate and empower families in fostering a culture of preventive dental care and to place the child at a robust starting point in achieving healthier teeth into adulthood.”
Contact NUCOHS for the Preschool Visit Programme or to Book a Dental Visit
Preschools who are keen can register their interest for the Feb 2025 visit ‘NUCOHS Preschool Visit Programme’ under the events tab. There will be three dates scheduled in 2025.
Parents who wish to book a visit at NUCOHS can also do so by calling 6716 2233 or emailing NUHS_Dental@nuhs.edu.sg
