Pediatric Oral Health Management:Mod.4 Overview


Overview

4.1 Oral Hygiene

4.2 Fluoride
Systemic Fluoride
Topical Fluoride

4.3 Nutrition
The Role of Food in Oral Health
Anticipatory Guidance

Key Points

Post-Test

References

Additional Resources


	Module 4 provides the health professional with information about preventive methods that can promote oral health and reduce oral disease in infants and young children. The module discusses oral hygiene and care of infants’ and young children’s gums and teeth, the benefits and risks associated with fluoride, and various options for fluoride application. Finally, the module explains the importance of eating healthy foods. By becoming informed about the topics presented in this module, the health professional can play a vital role in providing guidance to parents to help their infant or child achieve optimal oral health.



•	Describe what dental plaque is and its role in oral disease.
•	Describe when and how to clean an infant’s or child’s gums and teeth.
•	Describe methods for removing plaque from teeth.
•	Describe the different ways that infants and children receive fluoride.
•	List the effects of inappropriate feeding or eating habits on oral health.
•	List which snacks are the best choices for infants and young children.