Partners promote early literacy and good oral health habits

The Delaware Division of Public Health Bureau of Oral Health and Dental Services has partnered with the Delaware Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics to promote literacy and good oral health habits by encouraging parents to find a dentist for their child by age 1.

In support of its mission to promote optimal physical, mental and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents and young adults in Delaware, the chapter recently established an early literacy committee tasked with engaging and supporting Delaware primary care pediatricians to promote early literacy from birth to age 5. The efforts are guided by the vision that beginning at birth, every Delaware child should be read to every day.

To help accomplish this goal, the organizations are collaborating to distribute the “Brush, Brush, Brush” book to pediatric practices that are implementing the evidence-based Reach Out and Read literacy program.

The book, which will be distributed during the 12-month well-child visit, promotes healthy habits using rhyme to engage and inspire little ones to brush their teeth. Included on the back of the book will be a sticker with the phone number of the bureau of oral health dental services, which can help families find a dentist.

“The age 1 dental visit is important for several reasons, in that it allows for a positive dental experience for the child and family,” said Dr. Nick Conte, DPH dental director. “Not only does it create an opportunity for early identification of any developmental issues and preventive needs, more importantly, it helps to foster a home environment where oral health is valued, and families have the knowledge and skills necessary to stay healthy and decay-free.”

Pediatric practices expressing an interest in distributing the “Brush, Brush, Brush” book as part of the Reach Out and Read program will be contacted by a dental hygienist who will coordinate book delivery, and engage in oral health conversations around available resources and supplies such as toothbrushes, dental floss and toothpaste, as well as training for risk assessment and fluoride varnish application, as requested by the practice.

“The DEAAP ELC is excited to be collaborating with the bureau of oral health and dental services on this initiative,” said Stacey G. Fox, MD, FAAP, chair of the DEAAP early literacy committee. “It is a win-win. With a fun gift for the child to keep, busy pediatricians are able to provide two essential messages simultaneously: the importance of reading with your child every day and how to keep their brand-new teeth healthy and strong. The kids love to look at the book, and these messages get reinforced with every turn of the page.”

For a Delaware dental resources guide, go to dhss.delaware.gov.

For assistance locating a dentist, call the oral health services help line at 302-622-4540.