During February, dentists from Walter Reed paid visits to several Child Development Centers (CDCs) throughout the National Capital Region to educate children on the importance of good dental habits. The visits started at the CDC at Walter Reed, and continued with stops at the Forest Glen (Maryland) CDC on February 18, as well as at the CDCs in Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall (Virginia) and Fort Meade (Maryland).
Preventing Cavities from the Start
Dr. Clayton Cheung, a pediatric dentist at the Directorate of Dentistry at Walter Reed, emphasized that “Every cavity is preventable.” He explained that good oral hygiene habits begin with the expectant mother maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle and attending regular dental and medical check-ups. He advised that even before a child’s first tooth appears, parents should wipe their baby’s gums with a soft, wet cloth after feedings or at least twice a day.
Dr. Cheung also recommends that a child’s first dental visit should occur by their first birthday. He stressed the importance of baby teeth, as they act as space savers for the permanent teeth, helping them emerge in proper alignment. If neglected, baby teeth can be lost too early, causing alignment issues or even preventing permanent teeth from erupting properly.
Brushing and Diet
When a child’s first tooth erupts, parents should begin brushing. The amount of toothpaste used should be appropriate for the child’s age and number of teeth. Dr. Cheung explained that the amount of toothpaste needed differs depending on how many teeth a child has.
Diet plays a critical role in preventing cavities, and Dr. Cheung warned that many children develop cavities early due to sugary drinks like juice, soda, and even excessive milk consumption. He encourages parents to avoid sugary drinks and instead focus on a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which help promote saliva production that naturally cleans teeth. He also recommends fluoridated water, which has been shown to reduce cavities over time.
Foods that can get stuck in the grooves and pits of teeth, such as chips, candy, and cookies, should be avoided or followed by brushing soon after eating.
Early Dental Visits and Regular Maintenance
Dr. Cheung also recommends that parents replace their child’s toothbrush every three to four months to ensure proper hygiene. If it’s been over six months since a child’s last dental check-up, he encourages scheduling an appointment as soon as possible.
Outreach at the CDCs
During their visits to the CDCs, the Walter Reed dentists distributed oral hygiene bags to over 500 children. The bags included a toothbrush, toothpaste, and educational materials, helping children learn essential oral care practices early on.
This initiative highlights the importance of early dental education and preventive care to ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.
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