Healthy Smiles:  A Multidisciplinary
Baby BottleTooth Decay Prevention Program

Keith A. King, Ph.D., CHES


 
ABSTRACT

Baby bottle tooth decay (BBTD) is a serious and preventable disease which continues to afflict many children each year.  This type of decay has been associated with increased infections, impaired nutrition, sleeplessness, low self-esteem, lethargy, and poor concentration in children.  Despite the knowledge of effective techniques that can reduce its incidence, approximately one to five percent of US children continue to suffer from BBTD.  The strategies to prevent its occurrence are basic and straightforward; however, the methodology with which to reach individuals at highest risk is more complex.  Therefore, BBTD educational campaigns are called upon.  This article describes one such campaign, Healthy Smiles, which was developed and implemented as a means to combat this problem.  It is a hope that the strategies utilized in this project can be helpful to other health educators and program developers seeking to address BBTD. 
Journal of Health Education.  1998;29(1):4-7.

To find out more information regarding this program, contact: Dr. Keith A. King.
 


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