G137(P) How to Save a Smile!

Abstract

Introduction Dental caries is entirely preventable, yet remains the most common chronic disease of childhood- affecting 50% of children under five in Wales. It is caused by acid produced by the bacterial metabolism of dietary carbohydrates, particularly refined sugars. Frequent squeal include: pain, infection, poor aesthetics and permanent teeth damage. Basic standards of advice to prevent dental caries exist.1 Ensuring medical staff have the knowledge to advocate appropriate oral care, and know when to refer to dental colleagues could reduce the burden of dental disease. Aims To audit knowledge of staff regarding dental health care in children against basic dental guidelines1. Methods Structured questionnaires were designed by paediatricians and dentists and administered to healthcare staff. These were based upon: dietary advice including limitation of fruit juices, toothpaste fluoride concentrations, brushing techniques, and frequency of dental visits. Results 50 staff members were approached; 30 doctors and 20 nurses. 38% had more than 10 years’ experience. Abstract G137(P) Table 1 Question Correct Answer % Correct Tooth decay: most common chronic childhood disease Yes 52 Age child should drink from a cup 12months 52 Erosion occurs brushing teeth <30mins after drinking juice Yes 72 Eating a piece of cheese is tooth protective Yes 46 Begin tooth brushing as soon as teeth appear through gums Yes 96 Tooth brushing frequency 2 per day 90 Age requiring tooth brushing assistance <7 Years 76 Toothpaste's fluoride strengthens enamel Yes 86 Optimal Fluoride concentration in childhood's toothpaste (parts per million) 1350-1500 54 Advisable frequency of dental visits per year 2 90 Conclusions Our data demonstrates the current knowledge gap regarding basic dental advice. In response we have initiated training sessions for healthcare staff, provided space for dental examination in our admission proforma and developed a family/staff information leaflet, making these widely available. Reference Prevention and management of dental decay in the preschool child. SIGN Nov 2005.