Addressing Tooth Decay in Head Start Children

Abstract

Tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic disease of childhood. Oral health education and dental services are crucial to reducing the number of children afflicted with dental cavities. Due to limited access to preventative care, Head Start children are particularly vulnerable to tooth decay. This article outlines practical implications of a research study (Knowlden, Hill, Alles-White, & Cottrell, 2012/this issue) that investigated the child oral health knowledge of Head Start parents. The study also explored barriers faced by Head Start parents when seeking preventative oral health services for their children. The findings of the study suggest that practitioners should concentrate educational efforts on reducing the amount of sugary drinks and foods that Head Start parents allow their children to consume. In addition, Head Start parents could benefit from initiatives designed to teach them to how to properly care for their child's teeth. From a health promotion perspective, community agencies should work with dentists to expand office hours, allow parents to accompany their children during dental exams, and encourage dentists to see children less than 3 years of age.

Keywords:

• child health
• parent–child relationship