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Editorial
Of course everyone knows that without teeth, they couldn’t eat well, their speech would be affected, and if they were to smile with teeth missing, they’d look like an AFN advertisement for Billy Bob’s Jack-O-Lantern emporium.
Even with this basic understanding that teeth are important, many people have a tough time taking care of their children’s teeth. In support of February’s Children’s Dental Health Month, the 435th Dental Squadron is educating parents and children on oral health. At Ramstein, tooth decay continues to be the most common infectious disease of children.
Teeth don’t come with an owner’s manual – and if they did, we probably wouldn’t read it anyway.
But throughout the years, dentists have learned there are certain practices that will help improve oral health.
We’ve learned that what you eat will affect how healthy your teeth are. Drinking soda pop continuously will dissolve the hard enamel and make teeth susceptible to tooth decay. A diet high in sugar will contribute to cavities. Also, flossing is as important as brushing when children reach the age where teeth “touch,” which may be as early as 3 years old.
The amounts of fluoride in most over the counter toothpaste and in water on base have a beneficial effect in making teeth more resistant to decay.
We also know that children do not have the manual dexterity to brush effectively on their own, at least until they are about 10 years old. As advanced as they may seem, even 5-year-olds do not have the ability to brush their own teeth well.
Although some parents cite nightly arguments with their children about brushing as an excuse, they need to understand they can not give in. The mistakes made now will have to be paid for later.
Even though “baby” teeth will fall out, their premature loss or infection from cavities can result in severe problems with permanent teeth in later years and multiple visits to the dental clinic.
Regular visits to the dentist are an important step toward preventing dental disease. A table with oral health information and free prizes will be set up Feb. 12 at the Ramstein Base Exchange.
Members of the 435th Dental Squadron will also be teaching students at Ramstein American Elementary School how to take care of their teeth Feb. 16 and 17.
Call the dental squadron at 479-2210 with questions regarding your child’s oral health.
