Smile Day Events for Children in Dubai

“Taking Care of Your Child’s Teeth”

Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Centre holds Awareness Campaigns in Dubai on the Importance of
Children’s Dental Hygiene

Dubai July 2008 – As part of the centre’s commitment to the community,
Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Centre has organized activities for children to increase awareness on various dental problems and how to avoid them through proper hygienic care and regular follow-ups to the dentist.

Dr. Khadija Al Suwaidi, Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry at the centre gave free consultations to children at various organizations in Dubai. The most recent event was at Children’s City. The children participated in activities such as face painting and drawing and gifts were distributed to all. Educational animated cartoons on how to take care of their teeth and stay healthy were shown throughout the event.

Such events for children are ongoing throughout the year and will be conducted in schools and children’s clubs throughout Dubai. Those interested in organizing such events can call Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Centre and speak to the Marketing Department.

Dr. Khadija Al Suwaidi spoke about common problems and how to prevent them: “Considering the fact that more than 80% of UAE children are suffering from dental decay with a DMFT (Decayed and Missed Filling Teeth) score of up to 7, taking good care of your child's teeth is important. The ideal score would be zero of course and 1-2 is usually acceptable. Even "baby" teeth help your child chew food and speak clearly. Baby teeth also hold space so permanent teeth can grow in straight. If you start your child off with good dental habits, your child will find it easier to keep those good habits forever”.

Dr. Khadija continued to mention: “ You should start caring for your child's gums and teeth at birth. Gently wipe your baby's gums with a soft, wet cloth after each feeding. When baby teeth appear, start cleaning them with a soft, child-sized toothbrush twice a day. In children up to 4 years of age, use a small, pea-sized dab of children's fluoride toothpaste. It is important to use a small amount of toothpaste so your baby does not swallow too much of it. Swallowing too much fluoride toothpaste can cause spots on your child's teeth. Last but not least, take your child for a first dental visit within six months of the first baby tooth and by no later than the first birthday. This gives the dentist a chance to look for early tooth problems and to talk to you about how to care for your baby's teeth. It also helps your child feel okay in the dentist's office”.