In 2019, parents are protecting their children from all sorts of new dangers they never dreamt of when they were younger. From risks on the Internet to an increase in various food allergies, a child’s exposure to danger has never been higher. There is one danger however, that parents can successfully protect their children from with the right amount of attention and diligence; poor dental health.
All people, regardless of age need to brush twice a day and floss once a day to fight plaque build-up. Plaque is the soft, sticky substance that naturally accumulates on everyone’s teeth from the food and drink they consume throughout the day. Flossing and brushing is important for kids and adults to prevent plaque build-up because flossing helps remove the plaque that collects between the teeth that a toothbrush can’t get. Only so much mouth maintenance can be performed at home however, so it is still crucially important to schedule regular dental check-ups for parents and their children every six months.
A way for children to get an early start on their oral health is the use of fluoride. Fluoride commonly found in tap water and many of the foods we consume is one of the many tools dentists use to help prevent tooth decay and acid damage in their patients’ teeth. Not only does it help fight against tooth decay, fluoride also strengthens the enamel, or outer covering of a tooth. Those functions, especially for children, are why fluoride should be another part of any parent’s plan to keep their child healthy.
The best way for parents to introduce fluoride into their child’s overall health plan is fluoride varnish. Fluoride varnish, which is used all around the world to prevent tooth decay in young children, is applied by pediatricians and dentists (depending on child’s age) on the teeth of a child. The small amount of varnish is applied to the teeth, hardens, and then is brushed off in the next 4-12 hours. The varnish is completely safe and non-toxic.
Here are other ways for children to get their much needed fluoride:
• Fluoridated water
• Eating a diet with plenty of calcium and vitamin D
Fluoride isn’t a foolproof way to prevent cavities for children. A healthy diet, brushing, flossing, and regular dentist check-ups are also just as important to overall dental health.
Eskenazi Health Center offers routine dental cleanings, and emergency and preventive dental services at four locations in Indianapolis: Eskenazi Health at 1650 N. College Ave., Eskenazi Health Center Cottage Corner at 1434 Shelby St., Eskenazi Health Center Grassy Creek at 9443 E. 38th St. and Eskenazi Health Center West 38th Street at 5515 W. 38th St.
Dental health does more than just provide you with an attractive smile. It can also be an indicator of your overall health and if you could be at risk for chronic disease. Regular dental check-ups prevent no only tooth decay but also gum disease, which can be related to other health conditions such as stroke and heart disease.
Eskenazi Health Center provides dental services Monday – Thursday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. – noon. Most dental insurance plans are accepted.
If you have concerns or questions about your health, the health of someone in your family or are in need of a primary care physician for yourself or someone else, please call 317-880-7666 or visit www.eskenazihealth.edu/doctors.
Dr. Nydia Nunez-Estrada
Family Medicine Physician at Eskenazi Health