TOOTH DECAY A CRITICAL PROBLEM AMOUNG YOUNG CHILDREN IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY

The study, which was commissioned by First 5 LA along with other partners, revealed that some 72 percent of children under age 5 in underserved communities have untreated cavities. This is more than double the national average among youngsters in comparable age and income groups.

"Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood, occurring up to five times more frequently than asthma and also a leading cause of absence from school," said Evelyn V. Martinez, chief executive officer of First 5 LA. "Untreated, it can result in serious infections in other parts of the body."

Though tooth decay is the most common preventable illness, many youngsters do not visit the dentist regularly or get the dental care they need to keep their teeth and gums healthy.

"As a result, they are infected with dental diseases that can hurt the development of their permanent teeth, lead to painful conditions and threaten their overall health and well-being," Martinez said. "Many parents wait until their child is age 3 or 4 before they have a first dental visit, but the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday."

First 5 LA is also advocating good dental health for expectant mothers because in addition to tooth decay, gum disease can also pose a serious health threat to them. In 2009, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry announced new oral health guidelines for pregnant women to assist them in maintaining healthy teeth and gums during their pregnancy and into the early stages of motherhood.

"Gum disease may cause serious health concerns for pregnant women," said Dr. Steven Uranga McKane, clinical director of The Children's Dental Center of Greater Los Angeles. "If you are pregnant or are considering pregnancy, discuss any concerns you may have with your dentist."

For more information on children's dental health care visit: http://www.readysetgrowla.org/campaigns/oral-health-campaign

First 5 LA offers tips on the best way to take care of a young child's teeth:

Birth to 12 months

• Good dental habits should begin before the first tooth appears. After feedings, gently brush your baby's gums using water on a baby toothbrush that has soft bristles. Or wipe them with a clean washcloth.

• Schedule your baby's well-child visits. During these visits, your child's doctor will check your baby's mouth.

12 to 24 months

• Brush your child's teeth two times a day using water on a baby toothbrush with soft bristles. Best times are after breakfast and before bed.

• Make sure your child doesn't drink more than one small cup of juice each day and only at mealtimes.

• Consult with your child's dentist or doctor about sucking habits. Sucking too strongly on a pacifier, a thumb or fingers can alter the shape of the mouth; how the top and bottom teeth line up.

• Schedule a dental checkup.