Give your kids the gift of a healthy smile these holidays
Kids visiting Werribee Open Range Zoo on Wednesday are being reminded that just like the charismatic hippos, we all need to eat well, drink well and clean well - especially during the holidays.
Dental Health Services Victoria (DHSV) has partnered with local community health service IPC Health and Zoos Victoria inviting families visiting the zoo for the day to take part in a range of fun filled activities that promote the benefits of good oral health.
Activities will include story time fun, interactive toothbrushing demonstrations and a range of exciting hands-on activity stations.
Little ones can also have an oral health check with experienced oral health professionals on hand to answer any questions parents may have about their children’s dental health.
DHSV’s top tips for enjoying the delights of the festive season while avoiding damage to teeth:
- Eat well
When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, opt for fruit instead of processed sweets that can harm your teeth. We understand that it can be challenging to avoid sugar during the holidays, so try to enjoy treats during mealtimes to offset the effects of sugar on teeth. And remember, be cautious when indulging in hard candy to avoid any unplanned visits to the dentist.
- Drink well
Staying hydrated is essential for your overall health, and it's especially important for your teeth during the festive season. Drinking tap water helps wash away sugars from food and can help prevent tooth decay. Don't forget to keep your teeth and body refreshed by staying hydrated with good old tap water.
- Clean well
To keep your smile merry and bright make sure to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste – once after breakfast and once before bed. This simple routine can make your teeth stronger and healthier.
Across Australia, a quarter of children have decay in their primary (baby teeth) and in Victoria dental conditions are the highest cause of preventable hospitalisations for children under 10.
Oral disease is one of the most common and expensive diseases to treat, but it is also largely preventable.
Prevention is the best medicine, which is why Dental Health Services Victoria is encouraging all Victorian children and their families to keep looking after their oral health this festive season.
DHSV CEO Susan McKee said the holidays are an important time of year to find balance while still enjoying the treats that accompany the fun.
“The festive season is a wonderful time to share with family and friends but it’s also a time of year when we might be consuming more of the food and drinks that can be harmful to our oral health. That’s why it’s so important to eat well, drink well and clean well.”
“We’re partnering with the Zoo this school holidays to reach even more Victorian families and ensure even more kids get the advice and care they need to be set up for good oral health for life.”
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas said that the day of activities is a great way to teach kids healthy oral habits for life.
“Teaching kids how to look after their teeth is the best way to ensure they have good oral health for the rest of their lives.”
“Whether you’re as big as an elephant or as small as a meerkat, keeping your teeth clean is essential to staying healthy and happy.”
Werribee Open Range Zoo Savannah Life Sciences Manager Dominic Moss emphasised the importance of proactive dental care that is also essential for the Zoo’s precious animals.
"Our one-and-a-half-tonne hippos are trained to voluntarily open their mouths for routine dental check-ups and cleanings, conducted by keepers and veterinarians. This practice maintains the well-being of the threatened species, ensuring their dental health."
For more information, contact:
Rania SpoonerDental Health Services Victoria
rania.spooner@dhsv.org.au | T: 0409 430 462
