Oral Health for School-Age Children
In younger children, baby teeth are very important. Yes, baby teeth will eventually fall out, however, they help your child pronounce words and eat nutritious food to grow healthy and strong. Pretty soon, your child’s adult teeth will start to come in. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2019a), cavities are the most common childhood disease in the United States, even though they are preventable.
Fluoride Varnish
Fluoride varnish is a safe and easy way to treat cavities in children. It is very effective in lowering risk of cavities and can be applied once every 6 months or at each dental visit. It is recommended that dentists and primary care provider apply fluoride varnish to children’s primary teeth through age 5.
The next time you visit your dentist or primary care provider, ask about fluoride varnish for your child’s teeth. For more facts about fluoride varnish, visit the National Maternal and Child Oral Health Resource Center.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a safe and easy protect your child’s teeth from cavities. Sealants are an effective way to lower the risk of cavities and can be applied by an oral health professional.
The next time you visit your dentist, ask about dental sealants for your child’s teeth. For more facts about dental sealants, visit the National Maternal and Child Oral Health Resource Center.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019a). Children’s Oral Health. https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/childrens-oral-health/index.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019b). Dental Sealants. https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/childrens-oral-health/index.html
Did You Know?
Children who have poor oral health often miss more school and receive lower grades than children who don’t.