September 14, 2018 at 4:32 p.m.
Brush, book, bed: Ascension Rhinelander pediatrics promotes oral hygiene through new program
Brush, book, bed: Ascension Rhinelander pediatrics promotes oral hygiene through new program
Along with its Reach out and Read program, Ascension Medical Group at Rhinelander Pediatrics is now offering fluoride varnish to patients 6 months and older that do not regularly see a dentist.
"Cavities are a significant health concern for Wisconsin children and can cause serious problems, even for children who do not have their permanent teeth yet," Ascension Rhinelander Medical Group pediatrician Eunice Corujo-Incha said in a press release announcing the program.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends visiting a dental provider when the first tooth appears or no later than baby's first birthday.
"We have seen an increasing number of children that are not visiting the dentist until they are school aged. Many caregivers follow the misconception that they don't need to visit a dentist until the child has a full set of teeth, which for a lot of children may be too late," said Corujo-Incha.
Fluoride varnish is a dental treatment that can help prevent tooth decay, slow it down, or stop it from getting worse. Fluoride is a mineral that can strengthen the outer coating on teeth.
"Fluoride varnish is safe and used by dentists and doctors all over the world to help prevent tooth decay," said Corujo-Incha. "It is applied quickly with a small brush and hardens; children can eat soft foods and resume normal activity immediately after it is applied."
Corujo-Incha adds that healthy gums and teeth are important to overall health and bad oral health is connected to poor overall health.
Gum disease is linked to increased risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, obesity, malnutrition and many others. "Children who receive dental care by age 1 have 3.5 fewer cavities and can save up to 40 percent on dental costs," she said.
After the varnish is applied, children are given a kit complete with a new toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, care instructions and a dental-themed coloring book, the release states.
Brush, Book, Bed is made possible through a donation from the Ascension St. Mary's Hospital Foundation.
For more information about this program, contact [email protected].
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