Vienna launches initiative for better dental health for children!

Vienna launches initiative for better dental health for children!

In Vienna it's all about promoting oral health among our little ones. The “Tipptopp. Healthy in the mouth and all around” initiative has developed into a real success model since its introduction in 2017. Every year, around 100,000 children benefit from this program, which was launched in collaboration between the Vienna Health Promotion - WiG, the Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) and the Vienna State Dental Association. The aim is to raise awareness of the topic of dental health among children aged 0 to 12 as well as their parents and carers. This is done, among other things, through the distribution of 15,000 diaper backpacks, which serve as a symbol of the beginning of health education ( ZWP Online ).

But what is in these diaper backpacks? In addition to various information materials on the subject of dental care, they also offer practical tips on healthy eating and how to use feeding bottles and pacifiers. When it comes to children's oral health, parents and children should learn early on what habits are important. This includes, for example, starting to brush your teeth as soon as your first teeth appear in order to prevent tooth decay. Dentists' recommendations state that teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, ideally from the age of one year with fluoridated toothpaste ( Helvid ).

Communicate health in a playful way

Educational specialists also play a central role in preparing the topic of oral health in a child-friendly manner. There are countless ways in which children can be introduced to the topic in a playful way. Conversations about the “most beautiful toothbrush” or the “best flavors of toothpaste” are just a few examples. In order to convey knowledge about oral health, songs and stories about brushing teeth can be a fluid part of language education, as can creative activities such as a “Dental Health Day” in daycare centers. There are also networks available that offer ideas and support ( Laskita Saxony ).

A healthy mouth is crucial for children's well-being and development. The oral cavity has many important functions, such as chewing, drinking and speaking. However, many parents are not aware that it is advisable to visit the dentist in the first year of life. Regular check-ups can help identify problems early and thus prevent tooth decay and other dental diseases. Focusing on oral health is an important gateway to the holistic health of our children, and it is essential to involve parents and caregivers in this important topic.

The “Tipptopp” initiative and the corresponding health promotion programs in Vienna come into play here and show that preventive measures from an early age are not only necessary, but also possible. If you “look at your teeth” in a timely manner, you are laying the foundation for a healthy future smile.