Universal concept does not apply in addressing preventive care needs of children

By Wendy Bebey, RDH, BS
In addressing preventive care needs of children, the “one size fits all” concept does not apply. As prevention specialists, we know that partnering with parents is integral to successful outcomes. Helping patients make the right decisions about oral health care products for their children is an important responsibility. We must be armed with information and recommendations to help guide parents in making the right choices. For educational materials and resources in both English and Spanish, please visit DentalCare.com.In choosing a toothbrush, we must look at the child in terms of need based on the stages of growth and development. As an innovator in toothbrush design, Oral B was the first company to develop a line of manual brushes--Oral B Stages--that addresses the specific needs of children based on dentition, dexterity, and stages of development from age 4 months into their teenage years. Each of the Stages features a brush head with soft or extra soft bristles and non-latex cushioning to provide added comfort, unique bristle configuration to enhance plaque removal, and an ergonomic handle designed to maximize grip.(1)• Stages 1 (4-24 months) is designed to fit comfortably into the hand of the parent. The brush head is designed to offer gentle cleaning and features baby soft bristles. Introducing the idea of brushing to an infant even prior to the eruption of the first tooth is an important strategy that parents are likely to overlook. Consider giving this brush during pregnancy as a way to engage soon-to-be moms on the "oral health for your child" topic.• Stages 2 (2-4 years) features a child-friendly handle that makes the brush easy to grasp as “beginners” are starting to navigate supervised brushing. • Stages 3 (5-7 years) meets the oral care needs of the more independent brusher. • The new Pro-Health FOR ME replaces the Stages 4 brush and features design upgrades to engage ages 8+. The angled CrissCross and Power Tip bristles are positioned for effective plaque removal during the mixed dentition years. In addition to using the appropriate manual toothbrush, the Pro-Health FOR ME line offers a sodium Fluoride toothpaste, alcohol free fluoride rinse, and floss picks. The Pro-Health FOR ME regimen reinforces comprehensive at home oral care by engaging tweens to build the habit of brush, floss, rinse.

Wendy Bebey, RDH, BS, holds the position of Dental Hygienist Relations Manager with Procter & Gamble Professional Oral Health and be reached at [email protected].