medborger_i_danmark_engelsk.pdf - Ny i Danmark

118Dental careHEALTH AND SICKNESSFree dental carefor children aged0 to 18 yearsDental care for childrenand adolescentsIn Denmark, all children between zero andeighteen years of age are offered freedental care. They see a dentist once ortwice a year. The children are taught howto take care of their teeth, and havetreatment and dental adjustments, asneeded.As a result of this effective preventionstrategy, the standard of Danish dentalhealth is among the world’s highest. Mostchildren have few or no cavities. Childrenrarely lose their teeth or have a toothpulled out.All children are usually invited to thedentist before they reach the age of two.Although the child may not yet havegrown any teeth, it is a good idea to go. Itgives the child an opportunity to meet thedentist and visit the clinic – and theparents can get advice on how best to carefor their child’s teeth. Although the milkteeth fall out during early childhood, theymust be well looked after as long as theyare retained. Otherwise, there is a risk ofdamage to the new, permanent teeth.Most municipalities provide school dentalclinics. Some small municipalities havearranged for a private dentist to carry outthis service. However, also this form ofchildren’s dental care is provided free ofcharge.Take good care ofmilk teethWhen the children start school, they areautomatically invited to a dental check-upvia the school.The dental staff also cometo the school and teach the children howto look after their teeth.School dental serviceWhile the children are in the lower grades,it is a good idea if the parents accompanythem to the dentist. When they get older,they can go by themselves. If majortreatment is required, the parents willalways be consulted.