Guidance for Healthy Dental and Oral Behavior PDF

University of Sulaimani College of Dentistry Department of Pedodontics and Community Oral Health Guidance for healthy dental and oral behavior: Multilevel prevention of early childhood caries Supervised by : Dr. Aras...

University of Sulaimani College of Dentistry Department of Pedodontics and Community Oral Health Guidance for healthy dental and oral behavior: Multilevel prevention of early childhood caries Supervised by : Dr. Aras Maaruf prepared by: Gulala Jalil  contents Introduction etiology Theories guidance key aspects for oral health 1. Daily Oral Hygiene Practices 2. Nutrition and Diet 3. Fluoride and Oral Care Products 4. Regular Dental Check-ups Levels of prevention of early childhood caries 1. Individual Level 2. Community Level 3. Policy Level Benefits of multi level prevention Conclusion  Guidance for Healthy Dental and Oral Behavior Guidance for healthy dental and oral behavior refers to the advice and support provided to individuals to preform the practices and develop and maintain proper habits that promote good oral health and hygiene in order to prevent dental diseases.  Early childhood caries (ECC) Early childhood caries (ECC) also known as baby bottle tooth decay, is a condition that affects the teeth of young children. It is caused by prolonged exposure to sugary liquids, such as milk or juice, It is a preventable oral disease in young children but still highly prevalent worldwide  The primary aim of pediatric dentistry is the achievement of a high OHRQoL, to which a healthy dentition via a working prevention of ECC is achieved:  Dental practitioners need to consider psychologic components in the communication with patients (eg, behavior change techniques and theory) as it is transformation from “knowledge” towards “attitude” and finally to a long-term change of behavior. This is performed through Communicating beneficial information and its transformation into an actual change of behavior. Theories for learning 1. Social cognitive theory 2. Behaviorism 3. Cognitivism 4. Constructivism  1- Social cognitive theory: learning from a model Social cognitive theory (SCT) emphasizes the importance of learning from models or observing others' behaviors. In the context of pediatric dentistry, this means that children can learn and adopt positive oral health behaviors by watching and imitating others, such as their parents or dentists. By providing positive role models and demonstrating proper dental care techniques, we can help children develop good oral hygiene habits.  There are certain requirements for learning according to the SCT 1. the learner must have an emotional relationship with the model and/or the model must be important in some way (eg, parent, teacher, employer). 2. the learner must be strengthened to show the adopted behaviors. 3. the behavior must be attainable and comprehensible. 4. model behavior must have been successful and reinforced.  2- Behaviorism: learning through reinforcement and success It refers to the concept in scientific theory of investigating and explaining the behavior of humans using scientific methods, ie without introspection or empathy. By using techniques such as positive reinforcement, shaping, and modeling, dentists can help children develop good dental hygiene practices and overcome any fears or anxieties associated with dental visits. Behaviorism helps create a positive and supportive environment for children, making dental care a more pleasant experience.  3- Cognitivism: learning through insight and cognition In dentistry, cognitivism can be applied to enhance learning and understanding of dental concepts and procedures, It emphasizes the role of cognitive processes, such as thoughts, beliefs, and perceptions, in shaping behavior. In the context of oral health, cognitivism highlights the importance of educating children about the benefits of good oral hygiene and helping them develop a positive mindset towards dental care. This theory recognizes that children's thoughts and attitudes can influence their oral health behaviors, and by addressing their cognitive processes, dentists can promote healthier habits and attitudes towards dental care.  4- Constructivism: learning through personal experience and interpretation It's a theory that suggests that individuals actively construct their knowledge and understanding of the world through their experiences and interactions. In the context of pediatric dentistry, constructivism emphasizes the importance of engaging children in hands-on learning experiences and allowing them to explore and discover oral health concepts. By providing opportunities for children to actively participate in their oral care, we can help them develop a deeper understanding and take ownership of their dental health.  Learning and the potential role of sensory perception Despite different learning theories it is clear that not all information received will be retained and especially not processed further for behavioral changes – if at all. Our brain capacity is extremely high, but still limited. Via sensory organs (eye, ear, etc), we absorb information that is processed and stored in the brain in ultra-short-, short-, or long- term memory depending on the quality of the information, the importance of the information, and on how the information got into the brain in the first place. Rough assessment of the probability of retaining information via different ways of intake Information intake Probability of retaining Do it yourself 90% Tell / explain to somebody 70% Listen & see 50% See 30% Listen 20% Different aspects in counseling for preventing ECC : I. Daily Oral Hygiene Practices II. Nutrition and Diet III. Fluoride and Oral Care Products IV. Regular Dental Check-ups I. Daily Oral Hygiene Practices  A. Brushing: 1. Proper brushing technique: Educating the patients about various brushing techniques, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. 2. Frequency and duration: Recommendation on brushing twice a day for two minutes each time. B. Flossing and Interdental Cleaning: Flossing helps in removing plaque and food particles between teeth and along the gum line by Using a gentle, back-and-forth motion, where a toothbrush cannot reach effectively.  C. Tongue Cleaning: Is an important part of oral hygiene, cleaning the tongue helps remove bacteria and prevent bad breath, like tongue scraper. D. Mouthwash: Mouthwash can freshen breath, reduce plaque buildup, and help prevent periodontal disease. Especially antimicrobial mouthwash that contains fluoride for added protection against tooth decay. II. Nutrition and Diet  Nutrition and Diet: A healthy diet plays a significant role in maintaining good oral health. A. Limiting Sugary and Acidic Foods: Limiting sugary and acidic foods as they can erode tooth enamel and contribute to dental caries and try to rinse your mouth with water after consuming them. B. Balanced Diet for Oral Health: Encourage moderation & recommending to choose foods that are rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A and C, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and lean proteins as they promote healthy teeth and gums.  C. Hydration and Water Intake: 1. Promote drinking water: Water helps to keep your mouth hydrated and promotes saliva production, which is essential for washing away food particles and neutralizing acids. 2. Discourage sugary beverages: Sugary drinks such as soda, fruit juices, and energy drinks, contain high amounts of sugar can have negative effects on oral health. They can contribute to tooth decay and periodontal disease if consumed frequently. III. Fluoride and Oral Care Products:  III. Fluoride and Oral Care Products: A. Fluoride Use: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel & makes the teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugary foods and also can also reverse early stages of caries, it can also help to reduce tooth sensitivity. Fluoridated toothpaste : Recommend using fluoride toothpaste and with the appropriate fluoride concentration regarding the patients age. B. Choosing Oral Care Products: 1. Toothbrush selection: Guide on selecting a toothbrush with soft bristles and the right size for comfortable brushing. 2. Importance of replacing toothbrushes regularly: it is essential to replace the toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if bristles become frayed, helps effectively remove plaque and prevent soft tissue damage. 3. Selection of dentifrice : must be dependant on the patients need. IV. Regular Dental Check-ups  IV. Regular Dental Check-ups: A. Importance of Dental Visits : it is important to schedule dental visits every six months generally and modifications can be provided accordingly. 1. Early detection and prevention: regular dental check-ups can identify oral health issues early and prevent further complications. 2. Professional cleaning: to remove dental biofilm can be provided periodically during regular dental check ups according to the patients need. Advice (for all 0- to 3-year-olds) Parents/caregivers should brush (or supervise) tooth brushing Use of toothpaste containing at least 1,000 ppm fluoride From the breakthrough of the first tooth, a fluoride toothpaste should be brushed with twice a day Breastfeeding provides the best nutrition for babies The frequency of consumption and the amount of sugary foods and beverages should be reduced Teeth should be brushed before bedtime and once a day From an age of 6 months a free-flow cup should be introduced and from 1 year it is not advisable to feed from a bottle anymore Sugar-free medication should be recommended When weaning, sugar should not be added to the porridge or drinks A very small amount of toothpaste should be used when brushing your teeth  Levels of prevention of early childhood caries By targeting multiple levels, we can create a comprehensive and holistic approach to pediatric dental care.  Levels of ECC Prevention : 1 Individual Level 2 Community Level 3 Policy Level  1. Individual Level: - Educate parents and caregivers about the importance of oral health and about ECC risk factors and prevention strategies, regular dental check-ups for their children. - It is recommended that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of the eruption of their first tooth. -Promote good oral hygiene practices, such as proper tooth brushing techniques, regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, and flossing. - Encourage a balanced diet with limited sugary foods and drinks. - Fluoride toothpaste should be used as soon as the child's first tooth erupts, and a pea-sized amount should be used for children aged 3-6 years.  2. Community Level: - Targeting Parents and Caregivers: Provide educational materials and workshops to increase awareness about ECC prevention and the importance of oral health. - Collaborating with Schools and Daycare Centers: Partner with educational institutions to incorporate oral health education into their curriculum. - Community programs can organize sealant clinics to reach children who may not have access to regular dental care.  3. Policy Level: - Policy support is essential for the success of early childhood caries prevention efforts. - Governments can allocate funding for oral health programs, ensuring access to affordable dental care for children. - Policies can be implemented to promote community water fluoridation, including regulations and guidelines for optimal fluoride levels. - Collaboration between oral health professionals, policymakers, and community organizations can help develop and implement effective policies and programs.  Benefits of Multilevel Prevention: Reducing the incidence and severity of ECC. Improving oral health outcomes in children. Enhancing overall well-being and quality of life. encourages regular dental check-ups, and emphasizes preventive measures like fluoride treatments and sealants and prevent further complications.  conclusion It is important to remember that prevention is key in early childhood caries. The positive impact of ECC prevention :By implementing multilevel prevention strategies for ECC , we can effectively reduce the prevalence of early childhood caries and improve the oral health of children. It requires a collaborative effort from individuals, families , communities, and policymakers to take proactive steps to create a supportive environment for oral health promotion and prevention.