TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Gotta keep the bite bright!
The 72nd Dental Squadron partnered with Tinker elementary and the child development centers on base to promote Children’s Dental Month and educate kids on proper dental hygiene
The dental squadron was at the elementary school Feb. 6-8 and the child development centers Feb. 15-17.
Children start to develop their teeth as early as six months, but prior to their teeth coming in it’s important to also clean their gums with a soft, moist cloth to help prevent decay. Once their teeth start to emerge, it’s necessary to schedule an appointment with your dentist and start brushing the child’s teeth with non-fluoridated toothpaste.
Four stations were set up in the school’s gymnasium, and class by class came in for their scheduled P.E. block to rotate through the stations. Each station was dedicated to a different area pertaining to dental health.
Station one was equipped with display models to demonstrate the impact of gums, teeth and jaws. Kids were able to see the extraction of teeth to show the root and crown of each tooth.
There are 20 primary teeth, also referred to as baby teeth, which typically have fully emerged by the time the child reaches the age of two. Permanent or adult teeth normally emerge between the ages of five and six. Humans have 32 adult teeth. The functionality of teeth includes speaking, smiling and digestion. As the hardest substance in human bodies, the size, shape and location are important.
At another station, children learned about dental cavities and how they are formed. A cavity is a hole in the tooth, which is caused by bacteria. The hole can grow bigger and deeper over time if the issue is left untreated.
“The mixture of sugar and bacteria produces acid, and when the acid sticks to your teeth and eats away at it, cavities can form. That’s why we need to brush away the food and acid regularly.”
A different station included stuffed animals with human-like teeth to help demonstrate how to properly brush and floss your teeth. Brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing daily helps maintain a healthy smile, keeping that bite bright. Children were encouraged to brush along to a song to help ensure the appropriate amount of time, while making it as fun as brushing your teeth can be. Two minutes, two times a day with fluoridated toothpaste, will keep oral health in good shape.
Another station provided a visual for healthy food and drink versus non-healthy substances. For example, fruits (which can be high in sugar), vegetables, leafy greens and almonds are on the healthy list, of course. Cheese, milk, yogurt, items that are calcium and nutrient rich are also good for your teeth and gums as they help build and strengthen enamel. Conversely, items that are highly acidic or high in artificial sugar like candies, sodas and cookies can build up plaque and erosion, forcing more damage on your teeth and frequenting the dentist more often. The same station also had a display of sugar in test tubes, with corresponding drink options to demonstrate how much sugar is consumed in one beverage. Examples included soda, energy drinks, sports drinks, chocolate milk, fruit juice and water.
The key is education from a young age. Learning about proper oral hygiene and the importance of taking care of your teeth, brushing twice a day and flossing daily can prevent decay and contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
At the end of the demonstration, each child received a goody bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste, stickers, floss and a coloring or activity sheet.
For more information contact the 72nd Dental Squadron at 582-6474.