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It's a New Day in Public Health.

The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Oral Health Education Program

Florida Department of Health in Nassau County - Dental

This program is part of the oral health services offered at the DOH-Nassau County Dental Office and is intended to educate families, caregivers, and patients in order to increase awareness of dental disease and prevention. The program aims to establish life-long habits that improve oral health and promote oral healthcare education throughout the community.

Together with schools, community organizations, and other partners in the community, the oral healthcare of the community’s citizens can be improved leading to healthier lives.

Dental Educations classes are available upon request and staff availability.

Early Childhood Caries (ECC)

Early Childhood Caries or “baby bottle mouth” is a problem faced by many children who have never received dental treatment. As seen in the picture above, the caries (cavities) form on the front teeth. What cannot be seen in the picture are the large caries that develop on the primary (baby) molars in the back teeth. These caries can be painful and prevent children from eating, sleeping, and focusing in school.

For this reason, it is very important to bring children to the dentist after the first teeth come into the mouth (erupt). The dentist can provide parents/guardians with information that can help prevent cavities.

Steps for Healthy Smiles

  • Start cleaning early. As soon as the first tooth appears, begin cleaning by wiping with a clean, damp cloth every day. When more teeth come in, switch to a small, soft toothbrush.

  • Use the right amount of toothpaste. Begin using toothpaste with fluoride at 3 years of age. Use only a small amount of toothpaste, about the size of a pea. Teach your child to spit out the toothpaste well.

  • Supervise brushing. Brush your child’s teeth twice a day until your child has the skill to handle the toothbrush alone. Continue to closely watch brushing to make sure the child is doing a good job and using a small amount of toothpaste.

  • Take your child to the dentist. The first check-up with the dentist should be after your child’s first tooth erupts (comes in).

  • To prevent “baby bottle” tooth decay never allow children to fall asleep with a bottle containing milk, formula, juice, or other sweetened liquids. The sugars in these liquids pool around the infant’s teeth and gums feeding the bacteria that cause caries (cavities).