Fighting the rise in childhood tooth decay.

20 November 2018

Building oral health awareness and education in young children is key to a lifetime of good habits and ultimately less demands of our health system. Connect Health & Community has the support from Nick Staikos MP to pilot a five year dental screening program in children from 2 years of age.

The aim is to reduce the level of childhood decay and in young children and the associated hospital presentations that occur due to poor oral health. Connect Health & Community CEO, Amanda Murphy, said “Creating positive attitudes to food and drink consumption, brushing and regular dental visits rests not only with parents but also in child care settings. Over and the course of the 5 years we would be tracking to see positive change in attitudes and behaviours that can have a lifelong benefit to health and well being.”

“The Teeth for Life project is one step to positively redress the rise in early childhood decay rates to 47% of 5-6 year old children with tooth decay.” Mr Staikos said. “We are committed to funding the pilot program that will reach almost 200 children and offer screening, examination and treatment in an appropriate clinical setting without cost to the family.”

Mr Staikos joined Connect Health & Community staff Donna Bourke and Laura Cater at an oral health education event for children in Bentleigh to announce support for the pilot program.

“Prevention is the best form of defence against decay. Connect Health & Community provides public dental services in Bentleigh East and is also experienced in the delivery of outreach programs with a focus on prevention and education.” Ms Murphy said