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Many parents are still unaware of the importance of proper oral care for their baby from the moment the first tooth comes through. This is according to research conducted by DVJ Insights on behalf of NVM oral hygienists.
The study shows that although more than 70 percent of the Dutch are positive about oral hygienists, there is still much to be gained among parents.
Role of dental hygienists
Only 56 percent of them know that dental hygienists can help keep their child’s mouth healthy, and only 23 percent are aware of their role in teaching oral care to babies.
It is important to know that regular visits to the dental hygienist from the time the first tooth comes through, around six months on average, can help prevent later oral problems in children, such as cavities.
Children free of charge
There are a number of reasons parents do not take their babies to the dental hygienist. These include lack of knowledge about the benefits of preventive oral health care, financial considerations, fear and general unfamiliarity with oral health care. Only 39 percent of parents do not know that their children can visit the dental hygienist free of charge through their regular oral health insurance.
In addition, research shows that a significant percentage of Dutch people, especially young people, rarely or never consult an oral health professional, which is also true of dental hygienists. This emphasizes the importance of awareness and education about oral health care, especially from a young age.
Five reasons to take your baby to the dental hygienist
Did you know that visiting the dental hygienist can be just as important for your little one as it is for you? Here are some reasons why taking your baby to the dental hygienist is crucial.
1. Early recognition of problems.
The dental hygienist is trained to notice subtle signs of problems in the mouth, even in infants. Early detection of problems such as tooth decay, tooth shape problems or even speech development problems can help prevent later complications.
2. Oral care advice.
The dental hygienist can give you as a parent valuable tips on how to best care for your baby’s mouth. From cleaning gums to introducing a toothbrush, they can guide you in establishing good oral care habits from an early age.
3. Prevention of tooth decay
Although baby teeth are temporary, it is important to keep them healthy. Oral hygienists can provide parents with advice on nutrition, bottle use and the importance of avoiding sugary drinks to prevent tooth decay.
4. Promoting health
A healthy mouth is closely linked to overall health. By visiting a dental hygienist regularly, potential problems can be addressed before they affect your baby’s health.
5. Early habituation to the dentist
By exposing your baby to dental care from an early age, they become familiar with the environment and routines of a dental office. This can reduce any fear of dental visits later in life.
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