Preventing Tooth Decay Must Start from Birth

The Department of Health, under the Ministry of Public Health, Thailand is urging parents and guardians to prioritize preventing tooth decay in children from birth, emphasizing the importance of caring for baby teeth. Neglecting baby teeth can lead to permanent tooth decay and have long-term negative consequences for a child's oral health. 

Many parents assume that their child's baby teeth will naturally fall out, leading to a lack of proper care and attention. Unfortunately, this misconception can result in tooth decay and potentially serious complications, such as abscesses at the tooth root, necessitating costly and complex treatments. 

To prevent such issues, parents are advised to start dental care from the appearance of the first tooth. Using a small toothbrush with extra soft bristles and age-appropriate toothpaste is recommended. Parents can check the suitability of toothpaste on the product label. Use only a small amount of toothpaste, brushing horizontally on the teeth. After brushing, use a clean, damp cloth to remove any toothpaste residue. 

The Department of Health emphasizes that tooth decay prevention should commence from birth. For infants, breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months is recommended, followed by a combination of breast milk and age-appropriate foods for at least two years or longer. Breast milk is less likely to cause white patches in the mouth compared to bottled milk and provides essential nutrients and immunity. 

For infants without erupted teeth, clean their gums and mouth with a clean cloth wrapped around the fingertips. As children grow, parents should be vigilant about their oral health, especially when introducing powdered or boxed milk, which can lead to white stains and tooth decay due to sugar content. Avoid allowing children to fall asleep with a bottle. 

For children aged 0-3, parents should clean their mouths, while children aged 3 and older should be encouraged to brush their own teeth. Parents and caregivers should inspect cleanliness until the child is around 8-9 years old or can tie shoelaces independently. Additionally, parents should teach children proper dental care, following the 2-2-2 principle: brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes, ensuring thorough cleaning of every tooth and surface. Avoid consuming sugary snacks or drinks within two hours of brushing. 

If a child's brushing is not adequate, parents should assist and use dental floss daily to remove food particles between teeth. Encourage children to avoid sugary foods and drinks like snacks, candies, and soft drinks, as sugar residue can lead to bacteria formation and tooth decay. 

By starting oral care from birth and following these guidelines, parents can help their children maintain good oral health and prevent long-term dental problems. For more information, visit the Ministry of Public Health's official website.