Children's Healthy Smile Project - Latest Blog Comments

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 13:11:55 -0600

The following is an article titled "Toothache for Children of the Recession"

(CBS) Eight-year-old Mikey Paskiewicz and his 7-year-old sister, Lulu love to bowl.

Their mother Lynda is just as passionate about the kids brushing their teeth. She even sets a timer to prevent shortcuts. The family has been without dental insurance ever since Lynda lost her job at a western Wisconsin boat maker two years ago, reports CBS News Correspondent Cynthia Bowers. "I was more or less relying on God to take care of us," she said. So Paskiewicz felt her prayers were answered, when the Wisconsin Dental Association recently staged a mission of mercy: free dental care to anyone, at a La Crosse sports arena.
Over two days, more than 1,300 people came calling. Some waiting all night, many with children.
Lynda Paskiewicz drove an hour, before dawn, so her children could make their first-ever visit to the dentist. "Without this, I don't know what we could have done because she needs care now. He needs care now. I can use care now," she said.
They're not alone. It's estimated that some 12 million children face serious barriers to dental care, involving either high cost or lack of dental insurance.
"If there's nothing left at the end of the day, health care is what suffers the most," said Shelley Bolton who attended the clinic.
Clinics like the one in La Crosse help. But in this economy, with folks struggling just to put food on the table and pay their mortgages, a trip to the dentist is often the first thing to go. In fact, a recent survey found 36 percent of Americans have cut back on regular visits because of the cost. Dr. Gene Shoemaker helped organize the volunteer effort. He worries that parents trying to save money on dental care now will pay far more later. "By the time it hurts somebody, it usually involves more treatment -- which means more cost and more time to the patient," he said.
And the result can be disastrous. Two years ago, a homeless 12-year-old Maryland boy named Deamonte Driver died from an infection that started with a cavity and spread to his brain. "Our goal is to get those teeth taken care of before it becomes a problem to that tragic degree," said Shoemaker.
Lynda Paskiewicz knows it's been risky to delay trips to the dentist. But the news this day was pretty good. Lulu had two small cavities. Mikey needed a baby tooth pulled. And a few days later, Lynda started a new job that offers dental benefits. Another prayer answered for the Paskiewicz family, but something that remains only a distant hope for millions of others.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 12:54:30 -0600

February is National Children's Dental Health Month. A visit to http://www.ada.org/5578.aspx will give you many free resources to assist in educating the public on the importance of oral hygiene. In addition you can order supplies from their catalog such as coloring books. brochures, and flip charts. Most items can be ordered in Spanish as well as English.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M.

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:19:34 -0500

The following article is from www.perio.org, The American Academy of Periodontology. Periodontal disease is the end stage of dental disease. It is very important to understand what periodontal disease is and how to prevent it by establishing healthy oral hygiene habits from birth.

Many people think of periodontal disease as an adult problem. However, studies indicate that nearly all children and adolescents have gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease. Advanced forms of periodontal disease are more rare in children than adults, but can occur.
Types of periodontal diseases in children
Chronic gingivitis is common in children. It usually causes gum tissue to swell, turn red and bleed easily. Gingivitis is both preventable and treatable with a regular routine of brushing, flossing and professional dental care. However, left untreated, it can eventually advance to more serious forms of periodontal disease.
Aggressive periodontitis can affect young people who are otherwise healthy. Localized aggressive periodontitis is found in teenagers and young adults and mainly affects the first molars and incisors. It is characterized by the severe loss of alveolar bone, and ironically, patients generally form very little dental plaque or calculus.
Generalized aggressive periodontitis may begin around puberty and involve the entire mouth. It is marked by inflammation of the gums and heavy accumulations of plaque and calculus. Eventually it can cause the teeth to become loose.
Periodontitis associated with systemic disease occurs in children and adolescents as it does in adults. Conditions that make children more susceptible to periodontal disease include:
• Type I diabetes
• Down syndrome
• Kindler syndrome
• Papillon-Lefevre syndrome
For example, in a survey of 263 Type I diabetics, 11 to 18 years of age, 10 percent had overt periodontitis.
Periodontal Disease Runs in the Family
Periodontal disease may be passed from parents to children and between couples. Researchers suggest that the bacteria which causes periodontal disease may be passed from one person to another though saliva. This means that the common contact of saliva in families puts children and couples at risk for contracting the periodontal disease of another family member.
Genetics may also play a major role in the onset and severity of periodontal disease. Researchers found that Up to 30% of the population may be genetically susceptible to developing severe periodontal disease. Therefore, if one family member has periodontal disease, it is a good idea for all family members to see a dental professional for a periodontal disease screening.
Adolescence and oral care
Evidence shows that periodontal disease may increase during adolescence due to lack of motivation to practice oral hygiene. Children who maintain good oral health habits up until the teen years are more likely to continue brushing and flossing than children who were not taught proper oral care.
Hormonal changes related to puberty can put teens at greater risk for getting periodontal disease. During puberty, an increased level of sex hormones, such as progesterone and possibly estrogen, cause increased blood circulation to the gums. This may cause an increase in the gum's sensitivity and lead to a greater reaction to any irritation, including food particles and plaque. During this time, the gums may become swollen, turn red and feel tender.
As a teen progresses through puberty, the tendency for the gums to swell in response to irritants will lessen. However, during puberty, it is very important to follow a good at-home oral hygiene regimen, including regular brushing and flossing, and regular dental care. In some cases, a dental professional may recommend periodontal therapy to help prevent damage to the tissues and bone surrounding the teeth.
Advice for parents
Early diagnosis is important for successful treatment of periodontal diseases. Therefore, it is important that children receive a periodontal examination as part of their routine dental visits. Be aware that if your child has an advanced form of periodontal disease, this may be an early sign of systemic disease. A general medical evaluation should be considered for children who exhibit severe periodontitis, especially if it appears resistant to therapy.
Many medications can dry out the mouth or pose other threats to oral health. Be sure to tell your dental professional about any medications your family members are taking.
Monitor your family to see if anyone has the habit of teeth grinding. Grinding can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease, in addition to causing cracked or chipped teeth. Dentists can make custom-fitted night bite guards to prevent teeth grinding at night.
Researchers suggest periodontal disease can pass through saliva. This means that the common contact of saliva in families may put children and couples at risk for contracting the periodontal disease of another family member. If one family member has periodontal disease, all family members should see a dental professional for a periodontal evaluation.
The most important preventive step against periodontal disease is to establish good oral health habits with your child. There are basic preventive steps to help your child maintain good oral health:
• Establish good oral health habits early. When your child is 12 months old, you can begin using toothpaste when brushing his or her teeth. However, only use a pea-sized portion on the brush and press it into the bristles so your child won't eat it. And, when the gaps between your child's teeth close, it's important to start flossing.
• Serve as a good role model by practicing good oral health care habits yourself.
• Schedule regular dental visits for family checkups, periodontal evaluations and cleanings.
• Check your child's mouth for the signs of periodontal disease, including bleeding gums, swollen and bright red gums, gums that are receding away from the teeth and bad breath.
If your child currently has poor oral health habits, work with your child to change these now. It's much easier to modify these habits in a child than in an adult. Since your child models behavior after you, it follows that you should serve as a positive role model in your oral hygiene habits. A healthy smile, good breath and strong teeth all contribute to a young person's sense of personal appearance, as well as confidence and self-esteem.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 11:30:44 -0500

Jenny, thank you for your email. There is also a nonprofit organization, Smiles Change Lives www.smileschangelives.org, that provide information on low cost orthodontic treatment for children age 10-18 nationwide.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - jenny

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 02:42:27 -0500

I’m a single mom and I have 2 kids who both needed dental braces. I make just enough to not qualify Medicaid services so I can’t get free dental and medical services for the kids. I had to pay over $4800 so that my child can have braces and a beautiful smile. . .She was very scared and timid at school. I couldn’t find anyone in Los Angeles who would do the braces at a normal price so I had to launch find it with free services like
http://www.healthsouk.com (HealthSouk- the dental discount plan or discounted dentistry) and www.1800dentist.com (800 dentist) The first one was free and the second apparently charges the dentist but not me.
- Jenny Thomas

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 17:40:18 -0500

The following article is By JANE E. ALLEN, ABC News Medical Unit
Oct. 17, 2011
ABC World News with Diane Sawyer

Plaque, Appendicitis Bacterium Linked to Colon Cancer

A bacterium that causes appendicitis and gum disease has been detected in colon tumors, according to new research that suggests it may set the stage for colorectal cancer, the second-deadliest malignancy. Only lung cancer kills more people each year.
If the finding can be validated by larger studies, fusobacterium might one day be used to prevent and screen for colorectal cancer, currently detectable through colonoscopy or tests for the presence of blood in the stool. fuscobacterium also might play a role in determining the prognosis of colorectal cancers and shaping their treatment, according to two research teams independently reporting a relationship between the rod-shaped microbe and cancers of the lower digestive system.
Fuscobacterium is a known player in disorders characterized by inflammation, such as gum disease and appendicitis. Scientists have tied some strains to two inflammatory bowel diseases, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, both of which elevate the risk of colon cancer. In addition to promoting inflammation, fuscobacterium has other qualities that make it a formidable foe: it invades tissues and it's sticky, which helps explain its presence in the dental plaque that clings to tooth enamel.
A Canadian research team found significantly more fuscobacterium RNA (a type of genetic material) in colon tumors than in healthy tissues from the same people. That surprised the investigators because fuscobacterium is a rare inhabitant of healthy guts and "has not been previously associated with cancer," said Robert Holt, a senior scientist with the British Columbia Cancer Agency Genome Sciences Center and associate professor at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver.
A U.S. group compared tissues lining cancerous and healthy regions of patients' colons, looking in each for stretches of the microbes' DNA (another type of genetic material).They theorized that if bacteria and viruses were involved in the development of colorectal cancer, the quantity of the microbes in tumor tissue would differ from the quantity in adjacent healthy tissue. Indeed, looking first at tissues of nine people, and then 95 more, they found a spike in fuscobacterium species, especially fuscobacterium nucleatum, fuscobacterium mortiferum and fuscobacterium necrophorum in diseased tissue.
"Tumors and their surroundings contain complex mixtures of cancer cells, normal cells, and a variety of microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses," said Dr. Matthew Meyerson, co-director of the Center for Cancer Genome Discovery at the Dana-Farber Cancer Center in Boston and senior author of the second study. "Over the past decade, there has been an increasing focus on the relationship between cancer cells and their 'microenvironment,' specifically on the cell-to-cell interactions that may promote cancer formation and growth."
Both studies will be published online Tuesday in the international journal Genomic Research.
Holt and Meyerson said their findings couldn't discern whether fuscobacterium infection causes colon cancer, or fuscobacterium infection and inflammation develop because of colon cancer. Meyerson said additional studies comparing bacteria in the tissues of cancer patients and healthy people could demonstrate whether there are more fuscobacterium species in the intestines of colon cancer patients than in the intestines of the general population.
Earlier this year, British researchers published in the International Journal of Case Reports and Images the case of a 72-year-old man with rectal cancer whose abscessed liver contained fuscobacterium nucleatum. They called their findings "the first incidence in literature of colonic cancer in association with fuscobacterium nucleatum."
Several types of cancer have infectious origins. The H. pylori bacterium responsible for stomach ulcers also produces stomach cancers. Viruses responsible for hepatitis B and hepatitis C also cause liver cancer. The human papilloma virus causes the vast majority of cervical cancer.
Just last week, UCLA researchers announced they'd found significant differences in the relative abundance of particular bacterial species in the mouths of pancreatic cancer patients and healthy people. They said the altered quantities eventually might be the basis of screening tests for pancreatic cancer. There, too, researchers were unable to tell whether the altered bacteria levels were a cause or an effect of the cancer.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Dentistry cosmetic brooklyn

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 02:13:43 -0500

Great Tips !!!!
Due to the sweeteners cavities is become most common in the kids after teeth decay!
I t is a serious issue parents should care about their children teeth!!!

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Exceldental

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 02:06:55 -0500

When a tooth is lost the specialized bony process that houses the tooth begins to resorb due to lack of stimulation. This causes a decrease in width and height of the bone in the area the tooth is lost. Neighboring teeth and opposing teeth begin to move into the space. This causes food lodgement, subsequent decay, gum disease and abnormal forces being transmitted to teeth leading to fracture of cusps which may necessitate root canal treatment or extraction. Loss of teeth can also cause the cheek and lips to collapse giving an aged look.

The consequences of tooth loss can be prevented by replacing the lost tooth in a timely manner. Although there are several options to replace a missing tooth the number one choice for replacing lost teeth are dental implants. Implants are tiny titanium screws or posts that are surgically placed in the bone. Once integrated into bone they act like roots onto which small posts are attached which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors to the replacement teeth. Implants maintain the bone height by stimulation and prevents unnecessary trimming of adjoining teeth for bridge placement. Since implants are titanium posts there is no chance for decay on implants. Implants can service you for several years with regular professional cleaning and proper home care.

Many people who are missing a single tooth opt for a fixed bridge; but a bridge may require the cutting down of healthy, adjacent teeth that may or may not need to be restored in the future. Then there is the additional cost of possibly having to replace the bridge once, twice or more over the course of a lifetime due to decay or gum problems affecting the anchor teeth.

Another option to replace missing teeth is a removable partial denture or complete denture depending on the number of teeth missing. The chewing efficiency with a denture is reduced to more than half of that of natural teeth. The teeth that support the partial denture are weakened due to the excessive loads acting on them and eventually are lost. The denture rests on the gum causing tissue abrasion and bone loss. Removable dentures may slip or cause embarrassing clicking sounds while eating or speaking.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Quincy Dentist

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 02:02:06 -0500

nice site. thanks for the share.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 11:55:06 -0500

The following information is from Wilipedia. Please be advised:
This page documents an English Wikipedia content guideline. It is a generally accepted standard that editors should attempt to follow, though it is best treated with common sense, and occasional exceptions may apply. Any substantive edit to this page should reflect consensus.

Beneficial foods:

Some foods may protect against cavities. Fluoride is a primary protector against dental cavities. Fluoride makes the surface of teeth more resistant to acids during the process of remineralisation. Drinking fluoridated water is recommended by some dental professionals while others say that using toothpaste alone is enough. Milk and cheese are also rich in calcium and phosphate, and may also encourage remineralisation. All foods increase saliva production, and since saliva contains buffer chemicals this helps to stabilize the pH to near 7 (neutral) in the mouth. Foods high in fiber may also help to increase the flow of saliva and a bolus of fibre like celery string can force saliva into trapped food inside pits and fissures on chewing surfaces where over 80% of cavities occur, to dilute carbohydrate like sugar, neutraluise acid and remineralise tooth like on easy to reach surfaces. Sugar-free chewing gum stimulates saliva production, and helps to clean the surface of the teeth.

According to World Dental, these are the top ten beneficial foods for teeth.

1.Green tea contains polyphenol antioxidant plant compounds that reduce plaque and help reduce cavities and gum disease. Tea may help reduce bad breath. Tooth enamel is strengthened because green tea contains fluoride which promotes healthy teeth.

2.Milk and yogurt are good for teeth because they contain low acidity, which means that wearing of teeth is less. They are also low in decay-inducing sugar. Milk is a good source of calcium, the main component of teeth and bones.

3.Cheese contains calcium and phosphate, which helps balance pH in the mouth preserves (and rebuilds) tooth enamel, produces saliva, and kills bacteria that cause cavities and disease.

4.Fruits such as apples, strawberries and kiwis contain Vitamin C. This vitamin is considered the element that holds cells together. If this vitamin is neglected, gum cells can break down, making gums tender and susceptible to disease.

5.Vegetables: Vitamin A, found in pumpkins, carrots, sweet potatoes and broccoli, is necessary for the formation of tooth enamel. Crunchy vegetables may also help clean gums.

6.Onions contain antibacterial sulfur compounds. Tests show that onions kill various types of bacteria, especially when eaten raw.

7.Celery protects teeth by producing saliva which neutralizes acid that causes demineralisation and cavities. It also massages the teeth and gums.

8.Sesame seeds reduce plaque and help build tooth enamel. They are also very high in calcium.

9.Animal food: beef, chicken, turkey, and eggs contain phosphorus which, with calcium, is one of the two most vital minerals of teeth and bone.

10.Water cleans the mouth and produces saliva that deposits essential minerals into the teeth. It keeps teeth hydrated and washes away particles from the teeth.

Detrimental foods:
Sugars are commonly associated with dental cavities. Other carbohydrates, especially cooked starches, e.g. crisps/potato chips, may also damage teeth, although to a lesser degree since starch has to be converted by enzymes in saliva first.

Sucrose (table sugar) is most commonly associated with cavities. The amount of sugar consumed at any one time is less important than how often food and drinks that contain sugar are consumed. The more frequently sugars are consumed, the greater the time during which the tooth is exposed to low pH levels, at which point demineralisation occurs (below 5.5 for most people). It is important therefore to try to encourage infrequent consumption of food and drinks containing sugar so that teeth have a chance to be repaired by remineralisation and fluoride. Limiting sugar-containing foods and drinks to meal times is one way to reduce the incidence of cavities. Sugars from fruit and fruit juices, e.g., glucose, fructose, and maltose seem equally likely to cause cavities.

Acids contained in fruit juice, vinegar and soft drinks lower the pH level of the oral cavity which causes the enamel to demineralize. Drinking drinks such as orange juice or cola throughout the day raises the risk of dental cavities tremendously.

Another factor which affects the risk of developing cavities is the stickiness of foods. Some foods or sweets may stick to the teeth and so reduce the pH in the mouth for an extended time, particularly if they are sugary. It is important that teeth be cleaned at least twice a day, preferably with a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, to remove any food sticking to the teeth. Regular brushing and the use of dental floss also removes the dental plaque coating the tooth surface.

Chewing gum assists oral irrigation between and around the teeth, cleaning and removing particles, but for teeth in poor condition it may damage or remove loose fillings as well.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Children's Health From Smarthealthshop

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:02:00 -0500

Children's Healthy Smile Project is simply superb and it's really wonderful to have a such blog of children info.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 11:56:17 -0500

Medi-Cal is a provider of dental treatment for children in California. The following information is from their website. It explains the various classifications of treatment provided.

The American Dental Association's "Classification of Treatment Needs" is a useful tool when referring children for dental services.

Class I: No Visible Dental Problem
No problem visualized. Child has not seen a dentist in the last 12 months, and should be referred for routine care.

Class II: Mild Dental Problems
Small carious lesions or gingivitis, the patient is asymptomatic. The condition is not urgent, yet requires a dental referral.

Class III: Severe Dental Problems
Large carious lesions, chronic abscess, or extensive gingivitis, or a history of pain. The need for dental care is urgent.

Class IV: Emergency Dental Treatment Required
Acute injury, oral infection, or other painful condition. An immediate dental referral is indicated.

A Medi-Cal or California Children’s Services (CCS) eligible child may also be referred to a dentist or orthodontist if there is a severe malocclusion

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 16:13:07 -0500

The following article is from the The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR BABY’S TEETH FROM CAVITIES
Did you know that cavities are caused by germs that are passed from adult to child?
Babies are born without the bacteria that cause caries- the disease that leads to cavities. They get it from spit that is passed from their caregiver’s mouth to their own. Caregivers pass on these germs by sharing saliva- by sharing spoons, by testing foods before feeding it to babies, by cleaning off a pacifier in their mouth instead of with water, and through other activities where saliva is shared.
These germs can start the process that causes cavities even before babies have teeth, so it’s important to avoid sharing saliva with your baby right from the start. See below for more tips on how to keep your baby- and your baby’s teeth healthy and happy.
For you:
• Eat healthy foods to reduce the cavity-causing germs in your mouth.
• Brush your teeth with toothpaste that contains fluoride.
• Do not put anything in your baby’s mouth that has been in your mouth including spoons or a toothbrush, do not blow on your baby’s food.
• Do not use your spit to clean your baby’s pacifier - use water instead.
• If you have bleeding gums or cavities, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible.
For your baby:
• Before your baby’s first tooth becomes visible in the mouth, you should wipe the mouth every day with a soft, moist washcloth. As soon as teeth become visible in the mouth, brush the teeth with a small soft bristle toothbrush that contains a pea-sized smear of fluoride-containing toothpaste.
• Encourage your baby to spit out the toothpaste.
• You should brush your child’s teeth at least twice each day - once in the morning and once at night. Remember, the most important time to brush your baby’s teeth is right before bedtime.
• Talk to your baby’s pediatrician or pediatric dentist about the right amount of fluoride for your baby. Ask if your child should be brushing with toothpaste that contains fluoride.
• Avoid giving your baby sticky foods and unhealthy snacks like candy, soda or juice in between meals. Instead, give your baby healthy snacks like cheese, yogurt or fruit. Only give your baby treats or juice at meal times.
• Establish bedtime routines that do not involve using the bottle filled with milk or juice to soothe the baby to sleep. Also avoid having the baby sleep with a bottle filled with milk or juice as the natural sugars in these liquids will get changed to acid, which will rot or decay the teeth and lead to dental infection and pain. Avoid having your baby drink from a sippy cup filled with juice between meals.
• Do not give your baby juice until he is 6 months old. Do not give your baby more than 4-6 ounces of juice per day.
• If you see white spots developing on your baby’s teeth, then take your baby to a pediatric dentist right away. A white spot is often the first sign of a dental cavity.
• Schedule your baby’s first dental visit with a pediatric dentist when she is one year old. Pediatric dentists have additional training beyond dental school working with babies and young children. Remember - first tooth, first birthday, first dental visit!

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Fri, 20 May 2011 15:17:34 -0500

Oral Health: Dental Disease Is a Chronic Problem Among Low-Income Populations
HEHS-00-72 April 12, 2000
Full Report (PDF, 49 pages)

The following is from the Summary from the The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO).
GAO's analysis of the most recent national health surveys (1994-97) found that low-income people have disproportionately high levels of dental disease. Poor children had five times more untreated dental cavities than did children in wealthier families, and poor adults were much more likely to have lost six or more teeth to decay and gum disease than were their higher-income peers. Minorities also suffered high levels of dental disease. Dental problems not only cause pain and infection but lead to millions of lost school days and workdays each year. Although every state Medicaid program offers dental coverage for children and most programs cover adults eligible for Medicaid, the use of dental services by low-income people is low. States are required to provide comprehensive dental benefits for children enrolled in Medicaid, and the State Children's Health Insurance Program provides variable but often substantial levels of dental coverage to eligible low-income children in all but two states. Adult dental services, although optional under Medicaid, are covered to some extent in about two-thirds of the states. The availability of coverage does not, in itself, however, bridge the income gap and increase the likelihood of a visit to the dentist. For example, GAO's analysis of 1995 Medicaid claims data showed that only 29 percent of enrolled adults had visited the dentist in the preceding year, less than half the rate of higher-income adults. National survey data also showed that poor children and adults visited the dentist at about half the rate of their higher-income counterparts in 1996--numbers that have essentially remained unchanged since 1977.

GAO noted that: (1) dental disease is a chronic problem among many low-income and vulnerable populations; (2) GAO's analysis of the most recent national health surveys (1994-1997) showed that relative to more affluent segments of the population, low-income populations had a disproportionate level of dental disease; (3) for example, poor children had five times more untreated dental caries (cavities) than children in higher-income families, and poor adults were much more likely to have lost six or more teeth to decay and gum disease than higher-income adults; (4) minority populations also faced high levels of dental disease; (5) dental problems result in pain, infection, and millions of lost school days and workdays each year; (6) although every state Medicaid program offers dental coverage for children and most programs cover adults eligible for Medicaid, use of dental services by low-income people is low; (7) states are required to provide comprehensive dental benefits for children enrolled in Medicaid, and the State Children's Health Insurance Program provides variable but often substantial levels of dental coverage to eligible low-income children in all but two states; (8) adult dental services, although optional under Medicaid, are covered to some extent in about two-thirds of the states; (9) the availability of coverage does not, however, bridge the income gap to equalize the likelihood of visiting a dentist; (10) for example, GAO's analysis of 1995 Medicaid claims data showed that only 29 percent of enrolled adults had visited the dentist in the preceding year, less than half the rate of higher-income adults; and (11) national survey data also showed that in 1996 poor children and adults visited the dentist at about half the rate of their higher-income counterparts--numbers that had stayed relatively unchanged since 1977.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 11:28:03 -0500

Children's Healthy Smile Project is delighted to announce that approximately 1,000 children were served during February, Children's Dental Health Month!!!
With the assistance of a local pediatric dentist and her staff, parents of six local preschools serving low-income children were given an informative presentation on the process and prevention of dental disease in both Spanish and English. In addition, all 240 children received a "Smile Kit".
In Key West, Florida, 540 children attending a local Title 1 school received a "Smile Kit", and educational coloring book. A personal visit to several classrooms to demonstrate and discuss the importance of brushing and flossing was provided.
Key West and Monroe County is home to many low-income and homeless women and children. Children's Healthy Smile Project was able to provide dental hygiene items and educational information to several of these organizations.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 10:45:25 -0500

The following information is from the website: Animated-Tooth-Decay.com

To understand the process of dental disease is an important factor in the prevention of dental disease.

tooth decay / cavities / dental caries
How (why) does tooth decay form? - What's the process?
Previously we defined tooth decay as a disease process where a location on a tooth has lost so much of its mineral content that a hole (cavity) has formed. Knowing this, the next logical question is why does this occur? What's the process that causes tooth decay?
Cavities form due to a process termed demineralization.
Tooth decay formation takes place due to a process called demineralization. The term "demineralization" simply describes the fact that minerals (like calcium compounds) are leached (dissolved away) from a tooth's hard tissues (enamel, dentin, cementum).
In the case of teeth, demineralization takes place as a process (over a period of time) due to the repeated exposure of a tooth's surface to acidic compounds.
Where do the acids that cause tooth decay come from?
The acids that cause tooth demineralization (cavity formation) are produced by specific types of bacteria (mutans streptococci and lactobacilli) that live in dental plaque.
These bacteria are living organisms just like we are. When we consume foods and beverages, we create waste products. Bacteria do the same thing. The bacteria that cause tooth decay utilize sugars (glucose, sucrose, fructose, lactose, or cooked starches) as their food source. The waste products created during the digestion of these sugars are the acids (especially lactic acid) that cause the demineralization of tooth enamel and dentin.
Since the bacteria that live in our mouth eat when we do, as we ingest foods which contain sugars (such as soda, candy, milk, and even fruits and vegetables) these bacteria get a meal too. And within minutes they start producing the acids that cause tooth decay.
Factor associated with the formation of tooth decay :
When oral bacteria consume sugars, they start to produce the acids that cause tooth demineralization (tooth decay) within minutes.
Cavity prevention recommendation :
The less sugar you consume, or the fewer number of times you eat sugary foods, or the shorter the duration dietary sugars are allowed to remain in your mouth the less exposure your teeth will have to the acids produced by oral bacteria.
• Use artificial sweeteners rather than natural sugars.
• Minimize the duration sugars are allowed to remain in your mouth. Brush and floss, or at least rinse, promptly after consuming sugary foods.
• Don't snack on or sip on sugary foods and beverages over a prolonged period of time. Eat or drink these items in fairly prompt order and then clean your teeth.

Dental plaque provides a home for the oral bacteria that cause tooth decay.
Everyone's mouth is inhabited by bacteria, in fact a single human mouth can contain more microorganisms than there are people on planet Earth. While you can't sterilize your mouth, you can minimize your potential for having tooth decay. You do this by not allowing the bacteria that are present to form organized colonies. These bacterial colonies are referred to as "dental plaque."
Dental plaque not only provides a home for oral bacteria but it also acts as a medium that holds the acid they produce directly against a tooth's surface.
Take a look at our diagram to the left. When acid production is active (when we consume sugar) some of the acid that is formed will seep from the dental plaque's surface and into our mouth. This isn't the acid that will cause tooth decay. Any acid finding its way into our mouth will get diluted, buffered, and/or washed away by saliva and the foods and beverages we eat and drink.
The acid that is instrumental in demineralizing a tooth's surface, and therefore causing tooth decay, is the acid that seeps in the opposite direction, on through the plaque and down to the tooth's surface.
This acid will lie underneath the dental plaque and directly against the tooth. And because the dental plaque covering over this acid will act as a protective layer there is less effective dilution, buffering, and washing action produced by saliva. This in turn means that the acid will tend to remain in very concentrated form (a pH of 4 and lower) for quite some time after it has been created, and therefore tooth demineralization will take place for an extended period of time also.
Factor associated with the formation of tooth decay :
Decay occurs in those areas where dental plaque lies on a tooth's surface.
Cavity prevention suggestion :
Brush and floss often and effectively.
• Brush and floss after every meal or snack.
Take the time to be thorough with your brushing and flossing. Those places that you don't clean effectively are precisely the locations where cavities will be most likely to form.
With time saliva will penetrate through the dental plaque and begin to have its neutralizing effect on the acids that have been created in response to the sugary meal. But this can take as long as two or more hours.
Factor in the formation of tooth decay :
Acid formation, and hence tooth demineralization, begins within minutes of the bacteria receiving a sugary meal. It can take up to several hours for saliva to penetrate the layer of dental plaque and neutralize these acids.
Cavity prevention suggestion :
Brush and floss promptly after eating so to make sure the dental plaque has been cleaned off the surface of your teeth.
The amount of tooth demineralization that takes place after an exposure to sugar is in part related to the age of the dental plaque. Characteristics such as the thickness, chemical nature, and types of bacteria living in dental plaque correlate with its age. Plaque that is only a few hours old will not be able to produce as much tooth demineralization as plaque which is several days old (when each is provided with an identical exposure to sugar).
Factor in the formation of tooth decay :
The longer dental plaque has been present on a tooth's surface, the more capable it is of causing tooth damage.
Cavity prevention suggestion :
Brush and floss often and effectively. Take the time to be thorough with your brushing and flossing.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - ukdissertationwritinghelp

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 23:41:23 -0600

It’s a great tip on Do It yourself stuff. Thanks!

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 11:15:50 -0600

This article is from the American Dental Association website, ada.org. One paragraph has been removed. I was unable to find the suggested item.

Did you know that February is National Children's Dental Health Month? For four weeks, the American Dental Association (ADA) promotes oral hygiene in children everywhere. It's their way of helping young people understand the benefit of regular brushing, flossing and dental visits. However, as a parent, you, too, can participate in this holiday.

For the month of February, challenge yourself to introduce your child to a fun activity that promotes dental health. Fresh out of ideas? Here's some help...

Download a Poster. The ADA actually has free posters on their website geared towards children. One that young girls and teens will enjoy addresses the ills of smoking. It's colorful, pretty and features attractive teens on it. Give it to your child, so they can put it on their bedroom or bathroom wall. It'll remind that a beautiful smile is a horrible thing to waste.

Pick off their plaque. Have you ever heard of the company Plackers? They design flossers. How? By pre-stringing it in ways that make it easy to use. For kids, they have Kids 1st Flossers. They come in a variety of shapes and bright colors. One bag has about 48 flossers and costs about $3.00. It's an excellent way to introduce your child to this activity.

Introduce them to a game site. Did you know that the ADA has games on their website? They range from old school Connect-the-Dots to video-styled games. Check it out by going to www.ada.org or clicking "here." Your child will learn as they play.

Take a trip. Part of the big fear that children have about going to the dentist is the unknown. Help them get acquainted with yours by doing a pre-appointment visit where they get a chance to look around the office and see that there is nothing to be afraid of. Be sure to call in advance and get the "okay.

In conclusion, don't pass up a chance to help your child develop a lifelong habit of excellent oral hygiene. Celebrate National Children's Dental Health Month and offer your child a chance to learn and have fun at the same time.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - Karen M

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 08:22:59 -0600

The follow article is from http://www.first5oralhealth.org/
The topic is xylitol. For more information of xylitol, please see Blog Entry 29. Wed Mar 31, 2010

International Dental Journal (2005) 55, 81–88
© 2005 FDI/World Dental Press
0020-6539/05/02081-08
Six-month polyol chewing-gum programme in kindergarten-age
children: a feasibility study focusing on mutans streptococci and dental
plaque.
Kauko K. Mäkinen, Kauko P. Isotupa, Pirkko-Liisa Mäkinen and
Eva Söderling
Turku, Finland
Keun Bae Song, Soon Hyeun Nam and Seong Hwa Jeong
Daegu, South Korea

Aim: To investigate the use of polyol-containing chewing gums in a day-care centre (kindergarten) setting as a means to affect the growth of mutans streptococci and dental plaque.

Design: Over a period of six months, 123 five-year-old children chewed xylitol (X
group), sorbitol (G group), or did not chew gum (C group). Consumption of xylitol, and sorbitol was 4.5 to 5.0 g per day and subjects consumed in five supervised daily chewing episodes four at the day-care centres and one at home.

Methods: Interproximal dental plaque was sampled at baseline and after six months for a laboratory study of mutans streptococci counts. The Quigley & Hein plaque index procedure was used. Interviews and questionnaires elucidated the acceptability of the programme.

Results: Parents and kindergarten personnel regarded the programme as an important, additional procedure to promote better oral health. The children regarded the use of chewing gum as a pleasurable experience. Compared with groups G and C, there was a statistically significant reduction of mutans streptococci in the interproximal plaque in the X group. The Quigley & Hein plaque index scores tended to decrease in the X group, while no such trend was observed in the G group.

Conclusions: Habitual use of relatively small daily quantities of polyol-containing
chewing gum by young children may be regarded as an important additional caries preventive procedure in a combined day-care centre and home setting. Especially xylitol containing chewing gum may significantly reduce the growth of mutans streptococci and dental plaque which may be associated with dental caries.

Welcome to the Children's Healthy Smile Project Blog - haryoshi

Sun, 26 Dec 2010 18:53:29 -0600

nice post....