Launch of Prevention Program "Kita mit Biss" in Rhine District of Neuss to combat early childhood tooth decay
In a bid to combat the rising issue of dental caries among children, the Rhein-Kreis Neuss is set to host information events on June 4 and 5, inviting kindergarten operators to learn more about the "Kita with Bite" prevention program. The events will take place at the Kreishaus in Neuss and the Kreisverwaltung in Grevenbroich, both starting at 10 AM.
According to recent statistics, every second child aged six in Germany suffers from caries disease. To address this concern, kindergartens can voluntarily commit to using the "Kita with Bite" program by signing a written declaration of entry.
The program, which was developed in Frankfurt/Oder and launched there in December 2003, aims to promote oral health and prevent early childhood caries. It emphasizes daily tooth brushing in kindergarten, a practice that does not replace home dental care but makes tooth brushing a habit for children.
Regular tooth brushing, along with dietary monitoring, regular dental visits, supervised brushing, and the use of Xylitol, are widely recognized as effective methods for preventing dental caries. These principles of oral health and caries prevention can be applied in kindergartens to encourage consistent oral hygiene practices from an early age, reduce the risk of caries, and educate children and caregivers about the importance of oral health.
The "Kita with Bite" program has shown promising results, with its effectiveness demonstrated in reducing early childhood caries among children within three years. Kindergartens that practice or reintroduce daily tooth brushing and maintain tooth-healthy conditions will receive support from the Rhein-Kreis Neuss.
The certification ceremony for kindergartens that have shown commitment to oral health, dubbed "Bite-Supporting Kindergarten," is expected to take place on September 29 during the large family festival of the Rhein-Kreis Neuss on the Dycker Field.
Parents can also be sensitized to the topic with a brochure, while practical guidelines developed include a tooth-healthy breakfast, offering sugar-free drinks, brushing teeth after main meals, and weaning children off drinking aids.
The treatment for untreated caries is often performed under general anesthesia, a procedure associated with significant risks for the children and high costs for the healthcare system. Therefore, preventive measures such as the "Kita with Bite" program are crucial in addressing this issue.
Health Commissioner Gregor Küpper is the project's patron, and he underscores the importance of oral health, especially during the first years of life, which are crucial for further oral health and require special attention. The new project aims to encourage as many kindergarten facilities as possible to resume daily tooth brushing and create a tooth-healthy environment.
- The "Kita with Bite" program, which focuses on oral health and caries prevention, also extends its reach to other aspects of health and wellness, incorporating principles of fitness and exercise, nutrition, and science, to foster holistic development in children.
- In a bid to ensure comprehensive health and wellness for children, the Rhein-Kreis Neuss is exploring methods to integrate exercise, nutrition, and science education into the "Kita with Bite" program, in addition to oral hygiene, aiming to inspire lifelong healthy habits early in life.
