Tooth decay is Australia’s most common health problem. Smiles 4 Miles assists early childhood services to encourage and promote good oral health habits and healthy eating among children in their care.
The program is delivered predominantly in preschools and is based on the World Health Organisation's Health Promoting Schools Framework, an internationally recognised best practice approach.
Every child is at risk of developing tooth decay. The good news is that tooth decay is largely preventable. However 1 in 3 children aged five and under who attended Victorian public dental clinics in 2010-11 experienced tooth decay .
Establishing sound oral health and healthy eating habits from an early age gives children the best chance of maintaining good oral health in adulthood.
![]() | Drink well | |
![]() | Tap water is the preferred drink | |
![]() | Limit sugary drinks (especially between meals) | |
![]() | Choose plain milk over flavoured | |
![]() | Eat well | |
![]() | Enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods every day from the five food groups | |
![]() | Limit foods containing added sugars | |
![]() | Healthy meals and snacks are important for healthy teeth | |
![]() | Clean well | |
![]() | Brush teeth and along the gum line twice a day | |
![]() | Children should use a low-fluoride children's toothpaste from 18 months until they turn six | |
![]() | Don't wait for a problem. A child should see a health professional (Maternal and Child Health Nurse, Dentist, Oral Health Therapist, Dental Therapist or General Practitioner) by the age of two for an oral health check | |
![]() | An oral health professional will discuss a child's risk level and how frequently they need to visit for an oral health check |
Smiles 4 Miles offers early childhood services a great opportunity to promote good oral health habits and healthy eating in children using a sound, internationally recognised approach with local support.
![]() | Smiles 4 Miles 4 Educators Find out how the program can assist educators at early childhood services such as kindergartens and day care centres. |
![]() | Smiles 4 Miles 4 Organisations / Agencies Find out how the program is implemented in local organisations such as local government, community health services and primary care partnerships. |
![]() | Smiles 4 Miles 4 Families Find out how the program improves the oral health of your children, your family and the community. |
Last updated: 2019-10-24
https://www.dhsv.org.au/oral-health-programs/smiles4miles