Tooth fairies help pre-schoolers brush up on oral health

Dan Gleeson Park will come alive with tooth fairies, treasure hunts and jumping castles this Wednesday, 21 August as the Kirwan Community Health Campus oral health team jointly celebrate Oral Health Month and Big Smiles in the Park.

Children aged up to four-years old and their parents and carers will learn about the importance of oral hygiene and healthy teeth through fun events and stalls designed to improve awareness. Townsville Hospital and Health Service senior oral health therapist Diana Hill said education was key, as good oral health habits had to be established early.

“Almost 50 per cent of all children aged five to six years have evidence of tooth decay caused by improper brushing and consuming high-sugar food and drinks,” Ms Hill said.

“From around the age of two children can visit the dentist to have their teeth checked for any concerns or abnormalities and parents can also brush teeth together as an activity.

“I really encourage parents to start these positive oral health habits with their children early, so they can ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth.”

Ms Hill said consumption of sugary foods and drinks and children not cleaning teeth properly contributed poor dental health and tooth decay. ‘

‘Snacking on sweet foods and drinks throughout the day means children and adults are topping up the sugars in their mouths that turn into acids,” she said.

‘‘Even though children brush daily, they often brush for too short a time and because of their age use the wrong technique.

“Parents should be helping with the brushing of their children’s teeth up to the age of 8 years to ensure they are being brushed properly.” Ms Hill said a good oral health regime was easy.

‘‘We need to eat fewer sweet foods and drinks, especially between meals, and we need to clean our teeth thoroughly and regularly,’’ she said.

"Drinking plenty of tap water instead of commercial drinks is a great choice and should be encouraged.’’

Parents, grandparents and carers are welcome at the event which is held at Dan Gleeson Gardens, Thuringowa Drive, Kirwan.