Pediatric tips

Some pediatric tips from Dr. Bourke:

1. Be thoughful of the parents. They may be single mothers or fathers or same sex partners.
2. Caries can progress very fast in children. Early prevention is important as children can return in 6 months with rampant decay.
3. Parent;'s oral habits are important for the health of the child. Attitudes to dental health are passed down through the modelling of the parents. Bacterial colonisation occurs with tasting, kissing, cuddling by the parents. While the mother is pregnant, it is important to get her oral hygiene under control (Gingivitis and caries). It is important for the mother to keep a healthy diet to encourage proper tooth development of the child. They should be having the proper intake of vitamins, minerals, proteins etc to encourage the child's development.
4. It is important for the child to eat well as well. Restricting sweets can avoid the child getting a taste for sugary snacks.
5. Water is the best liquid for the child. It is important to avoid bottle feeding with soft drinks/juice etc. The same applies for parents who rub jam or honey on dummies.
6. Tongue tie can be something to watch out for. It is a frenal attachment that is close to the tip of the tongue. This restricts tongue movement which may cause difficulty in feeding.