Question: Toothbrushing is messy in our center. Do you have any tips for improving our program?
Answer: “While toothbrushing at the sink makes sense, it can take time and make a mess. Also, if more than one child is at the sink, germs (bacteria) may be passed from one toothbrush to another (for example, when rinsing more than one toothbrush under running water at the same time). Some programs have all children brush their teeth at the same time at the classroom table. Teachers say that once children get used to the process, it’s organized, quick, and much less messy.”
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Tooth Talk Reveals Importance of Pregnant Moms’ Healthy Teeth
True or False: You lose a tooth for each pregnancy.
False.
Pregnancy doesn’t cause dental problems. In fact, healthy teeth contribute to a healthy pregnancy and good dental health for the baby. And, mom’s poor oral health may harm the baby. That’s why it’s important for pregnant women to take care of their teeth.
Do the moms in your program know…?
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Parents Speak Out About Kids’ Healthy Teeth in a New Tooth Talk Video
Did you know…
According to a North Carolina study published in the American Journal of Public Health, kids with poor oral health were nearly 3 times more likely to miss school because of dental pain?
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Tooth Talk Resource Spotlight: Caring for Our Children-National Health and Safety Performance Standards: Guidelines for Out-of-Home Child Care Programs
We like that this comprehensive website contains the entire updated Third Edition of the guidelines, including a link to the Special Collection – Oral Health in Child Care and Early Education.
The easy-to-navigate format begins with the topic, then lists the standard, rationale (evidence), comments, type of facility where the activity is appropriate, and more. There’s even an FAQ icon beside the topic! This helpful online edition contains a database of current standards that are updated as needed. What a great resource for health coordinators and childcare health consultants!
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