The oral health of children with congenital heart disease is particularly important as they are at an increased risk of developing bacterial infections such as infective endocarditis.
To celebrate #OralHealthMonth, here’s some important information from experts at the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit and Leeds Dental Institute…
What is Infective Endocarditis?
Endocarditis is a rare infection of the inside of the heart or main arteries. Most patients with congenital heart disease are at increased risk of getting endocarditis.
How does good oral hygiene help prevent Endocarditis?
Everybody carries bacteria in the mouth. These are usually harmless, but if the teeth or gums become diseased it becomes much easier for large numbers of bacteria to get into the blood, with the risk they may settle in the heart and cause endocarditis. Keeping your teeth clean and free from tooth decay can really help reduce the risk.
What are some top tips for keeping my child’s teeth healthy?
- Start brushing babies’ teeth as soon as they come through
- Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, and once before bed
- SPIT DON’T RINSE! Toothpaste builds a protective layer of fluoride on teeth. Rinsing washes it away
- From 12 months onwards, after brushing teeth at night only drink water
- Keep sugary foods and drinks to mealtimes – the more often we eat sugar, the more damaging it can be
When should I take my child to the dentist?
It is important to take your baby/child to the dentist by the age of one. The dental team can give you help and advice about looking after your child’s teeth and identify any problems early.
What if I don’t have a dentist?
It’s never too late – for more information about how to find an NHS dentist visit: www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/dentists
These useful links provide further information and resources to help look after your child’s teeth:
The above information has been taken from two books your donations helped CHSF to produce – ‘Dental Care for Children with CHD’ and ‘Katie Bear Goes to the Dentist’, both written by experts from the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit and the Leeds Dental Institute.
These books provide even more oral hygiene messages and information for families of young children with congenital heart disease.
‘Katie Bear Goes to the Dentist’ is written from a child’s perspective and will help them to appreciate the importance of good oral hygiene. ‘Dental Care for Children with CHD’ is a guide to go alongside it for parents and carers.
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