The Beauséjour Regional Health Authority Celebrates Dental Health Month

To mark the Dental Health Month (April), a Greater-Moncton dental health professional committee, including dentists, denturists, dental hygienists and assistants, donated toothbrushes and dentures cleaning products of a $500 value to the Pediatric and the Long-Term Care Units of the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont Regional Hospital, in Moncton.

In addition, Dr. Suzanne Drapeau-McNally, dentist, offered tricks to parents on how to improve the dental health of their children. Among them, she recommended that children visit the dentist approximately 6 months after their first tooth has erupted.

She adds that parents should brush their children’s teeth until they reach school age. Dexterity is the best sign: If the child can tie his own shoe, it means he can brush his teeth by himself. If he protests, ask him to make the final inspection.

She also reminds parents to be attentive to treats and snacks. Tooth decay is not caused only by sweets and desserts. Juice and sticky food, like raisins, are very cariogenic.

Finally, she suggests that parents bring a camera at the first visit to the dentist. You may display the picture where the child can frequently see it, as it reminds her of her dental health and help her become familiarized with the face of the dentist. In case of a dental emergency, she will remember her dentist, and be reassured.

Photo Caption:
Dr. Suzanne Drapeau-McNally, dentist, offers teeth cleaning lessons to a patient at the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont Regional Hospital Pediatric Unit, Patrick Arsenault, 2 and a half years of age, accompanied by his father, Mr. Jean Arsenault.