PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Extra emphasis is placed on oral health in September as part of Oral health month.
This includes the correct and regular care of your own teeth as well as that of younger children.
Western Cape Government Health in Eden has launched a pilot project called Superhero Smiles, with the aim to improve the oral health of our communities, especially our younger children.
The pilot, which also incorporates the community health workers, was started earlier this year.
Community health workers and an oral hygienist visit selected pre-schools on a regular basis to show children the correct technique when brushing their teeth.
Community health workers then do follow-up visits at home to ensure that good oral hygiene is practiced both at school and at home.
Teachers and parents are also educated about the importance of good oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. The department supplies toothbrushes and toothpaste for each child.
As with all health matters, good oral health cannot solely be achieved by the Western Cape Government Health. It needs each community member and parent to take responsibility for their own and their children’s oral health.
Daily preventive care, including proper brushing and flossing, will help stop problems before they develop and it is much less painful, expensive and worrisome than treating conditions that have been allowed to progress.
Bright smiles all around at Siyafunda crèche in Knysna. Photo: Supplied
In-between regular visits to the dentist, there are simple steps that each of us can take to greatly decrease the risk of developing tooth decay, gum disease and other dental problems.
These include:
· Brushing thoroughly twice a day and flossing daily
· Eating a balanced diet and limiting snacks between meals
· Using dental products that contain fluoride, including toothpaste
· Rinsing with a fluoride mouth rinse[CG1] if your dentist tells you to
· Making sure that your children under 12 years drink fluoridated water or take a fluoride supplement if they live in a non-fluoridated area
Other oral health services offered by the Western Cape Government Health include:
- Oral examinations
- Scale and polish (cleaning teeth and gums)
- Treatment of pain and sepsis (draining of abscess, antibiotic prescription, etc.)
- Dental X-rays (bitewings) as aid to diagnosis
- Extractions
- Basic fillings (one to four surfaces)
- Prevention (education, brushing, fissure sealants, fluoride)
For more information contact your nearest clinic to enquire about dental services in your area or contact Nadia Ferreira, principal communications officer Eden and Central Karoo Districts, Western Cape Government Health or the Kwanokuthula dental clinic in Plettenberg Bay on 044 501 5751.
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