It is popularly believed that because deciduous teeth will be replaced, they do not need care. Some researchers are looking to discover new methods to change these misunderstandings.
Changing perceptions
Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine in Cleveland and the University of Washington Northwest Center to Reduce Oral Health Disparities in Seattle researchers plan to activate a behavioral intervention to alter the way parents and caregivers view deciduous teeth and the need to keep them healthy and free of decay. The effort is supported by a $1.6-million, 2.5-year study, “Family Intervention with Caregivers of Children with Dental Needs,” funded by National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (1) The goal of the study is to create new ways to dispel the myths that exist about “baby” teeth, and in the end to increase the level of oral care for children. The investigators will create a referral letter and educational materials for parents and caregivers, and determine if those resources motivate those recruited for the study to keep their children’s teeth healthy. (1)
There are numerous ways to improve the oral health of children, and educating parents and caregivers is one of them. According to a policy statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published online in November 1014 in Pediatrics, another way is for pediatricians to be more involved with the oral health of young children. (2)
See Recommendations for pediatrician involvement and more here.
Recent Comments