During the British Dental Health Foundation ‘National Smile Month’ children of South Uist recently had the opportunity to attend an ‘open clinic’ at Lochboisdale Dental Practice.
The aim of the day was to improve awareness of how to prevent dental decay and to apply a fluoride varnish to their teeth. Fluoride varnish applied regularly to the teeth has scientifically been proven to reduce dental decay.
Children took part in various activities including a ‘Tooth Brush Hunt’ which gave them a chance to win an electric toothbrush. The winners were Calum and Francesca MacMillan from Frobost, South Uist.
Whilst educating both parents and children on the key messages of good dental health, fun was had by all, and made a trip to the dentists an enjoyable experience.
Dental decay is a preventable disease and the day’s events helped to highlight and improve awareness of the benefits to both teeth and the body if a healthy diet is maintained. Implementing good oral hygiene routines and diet from a young age is key to ‘Healthy Teeth For Life.’
The support of parents bringing their children to attend the event was tremendous. This is the first time this idea has been tried and judging by the attendance the format proved to be a success. The high number of children receiving the fluoride varnish amounted to approximately half the number of the local schools role number.
Smiles at children’s dental drop-
Dental Therapist Morag MacKinnon with Calum, Francesca and Georgia MacMillan