VIHA Dental Hygienist Ethel Henry will be visiting the Manson’s Hall playgroup from around 11:30 – 1:00 on Wednesday, January 23.
She provides a quick dental screening, private discussion about dental questions (in the playschool for more privacy) and will take a quick look around the child’s mouth.
If there is a need then she can apply a topical fluoride.
This service is provided free to families by the Vancouver Island Health Authority.
Use of fluoride is a decision to researched and made by parents. The following information regarding fluoride has been provided by VIHA (Vancouver Island Health Authority).
FLUORIDE….WHAT IS IT?
• it is a mineral found naturally in fresh and salt water and some foods
• it makes the outer layer of the tooth stronger and less likely to develop cavities
• it can stop and reverse cavities that are just starting
• it prevents tooth decay and is safe
WHY SHOULD WE USE FLUORIDE?
• tooth decay (cavities) is the most chronic disease in North America
• 96% of Canadians have or have had cavities
• cavities cause pain and infection
• cavities are expensive to treat
• accessing dental professionals is difficult for people living in rural and remote communities
• children who have cavities are more likely to continue to have cavities throughout their lives
WE CAN PROTECT OUR TEETH BY USING:
• toothpastes, mouth rinses or varnishes that contain fluoride
DID YOU KNOW: Having fluoride varnish applied to your child’s teeth regularly (as recommended by a dental professional) prevents up to 45% of cavities
CHILDREN ARE AT RISK FOR CAVITIES IF:
• they don’t have their teeth brushed twice a day by an adult using a toothpaste with fluoride (Children under 3 should use fluoridated toothpaste only as recommended by a dental professional)
• they or other family members have previously had cavities
• they frequently eat foods or drink liquids that are high in sugar