SacMomsClub.com

By Barry Chang, DDS

Tooth decay in children is reaching epidemic proportions. 

About one-third of California preschool children have untreated tooth decay. The resulting pain and infection can lead to problems with nutrition, growth, school readiness and speech.

First 5 Yolo and CommuniCare Health Clinics sponsor the Smile Savers program to provide free dental screenings and fluoride varnishes to Yolo County children ages 0 to 5.  The West Sacramento Salud Clinic Dental offers services in English, Spanish and Russian.

To help your children prevent cavities:

·        First dental visit by first birthday- Visit a dentist when the first tooth comes in. 

·        Fluoride- Fluoride is important for developing stronger teeth and preventing decay. 

·        Healthy eating habits- Offer a balanced diet and limit snacks.  Teeth “bathed” in starchy carbohydrates or sugary juices have a greater chance of decay.  If children sleep with a bottle, fill it with water.

·        Oral Hygiene- Wipe baby’s gums with a damp cloth after feeding.  Start brushing after the first tooth appears, three times a day for one minute with a “smear” of toothpaste for a child under 2 years of age.  For 2- to 5-year-olds, dispense a “pea-size” amount of toothpaste.  Instruct children not to swallow the toothpaste. 

·        Bottle-Feeding- Children should be weaned from the bottle at 12 to 14 months of age.

·        Sealant- To prevent tooth decay, a dentist may recommend a sealant, which is clear or shaded plastic material placed in the pits and grooves of the permanent teeth.

·        Varnish- Dentists can apply a safe and protective fluoride varnish to the teeth of young children.  A recent study found that 1-year-olds who had this treatment twice a year were four times less likely to get cavities in their baby teeth.

Yolo County children ages 0 to 5 can get free dental screenings and varnish at CommuniCare Saturday Dental Clinics. These clinics are scheduled throughout the year in various Yolo County locations.  For more information about free dental screenings at the West Sacramento Salud Clinic Dental, call (916) 403-2960.

- Dentist Barry Chang is the recently appointed Director of Dental Care at CommuniCare Health Centers. CommuniCare Health Centers' mission is to provide high-quality health care to those in need. They are committed to never turning anyone away based on inability to pay and to deliver care in a supportive, safe, non-judgmental manner, stressing patient involvement and responsibility, health education, counseling and preventative health care.