Be a role model for your children when it comes oral health

Previous studies of children's oral health in the UAE have been alarming.

Parents must act as role models by teaching their children the importance of oral health and begin a lifetime of happy, healthy teeth and bright smiles, according to local dentists.
Previous studies of children's oral health in the UAE have been alarming. In February 2015, for example, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) released the results of a survey of over 5,000 students drawn from 47 private and public schools, which found that 80 per cent of children aged 12-15 have unhealthy gums, and more than 60 per cent of children in various age groups have dental caries.
In an interview with Khaleej Times, Dr Agnes Roze of Dr Roze and Associates Dental Clinic, who specialises in children, noted that the most common problems she sees are "cavities, and aesthetic problems, like whitening, and position of the teeth."
Dr Roze noted that beginning a lifetime of good oral hygiene practices begins should begin at a very young age.
"Early on, it's really important. If you start the habit early on, you keep it. It should begin as soon as possible, even at one year of age," she said. "If you instill those habits early on, and keep a good diet, it will be much easier for your life."
Aside from oral hygiene techniques, Dr Roze stressed the importance of having children wear mouth guards while playing sports, as teeth can easily be damaged during play.
To help children learn, Dr Roze recommends one simple step: making it fun. "As a child, it's easy. They want to imitate their parents," she said. "Usually, if you brush your teeth in front of your children when they're very young, they'll want to do it too. It's important to do it in a friendly way, through an imitation game or something more playful."
With regards to schools, Dr Roze said: "They are doing a little but could do better" when it comes to teaching children about oral hygiene.
"They are trying. I've seen a few nurseries which are now brushing children's teeth after they have their snack," she said.
"I know in the schools they are talking a lot about a healthy diet, so you can relate it to the teeth, and sugar. It's getting on the right track."
bernd@khaleejtimes.com