Children's Oral and Dental Dental Health (Workbook) | Page 3

Children’s Oral & Dental Health

FOREWORD
The dental health of young children in New Zealand continues to be among the worst in the
developed world. Figures reveal that forty-four per cent of 5-year-olds have at least one
decayed, missing or filled tooth.
Oral health is a vital component of general health. Good oral health results from establishing
and maintaining a nutritious diet (low in sugar and acid), and good oral hygiene practices
during childhood.
Specific oral health risks arise due to: poor dietary choices; poor oral hygiene practices; and
dietary behaviour such as grazing, snacking and frequent consumption of foods and drinks
with high sugar and/or acid content.
The purpose of this workbook is to provide a guide for students placed in children and family
services in south Auckland.

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