Tooth decay now five times more prevalent than asthma in Moreland
There is a health issue on the rise in Moreland that is literally eating away at kids. It has prompted one health group to urge parents to offer their children more support when it comes to oral health.
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Merri Health is urging parents to help put an end to an issue becoming more prevalent among school-aged children in Moreland.
Tooth decay is on the rise and is now five times more prevalent than asthma.
New data, from Dental Health Services Victoria, shows that 29 per cent of children aged 0-5 years and 59 per cent aged 6-8 years using public dental services have at least one decayed, missing or filled tooth.
Merri Health’s oral health therapist Ann Dinh said tooth issues could lead to other problems.
“Children with tooth decay and poor oral health can have trouble eating, sleeping and paying attention,” she said.
“If left untreated, tooth decay is serious and can result in hospitalisation.”
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Moreland kindergartens and childcare centres can take part in Smiles 4 Miles, a program that offers oral health education based on the messages Drink Well, Eat Well and Clean Well.
“We help children develop good oral health habits for life,” she said.
Glenroy Memorial preschool recently received its Smiles 4 Miles completion award that saw 72 children graduate.
Details: Ann Dinh on 1300 637 744.