Many at-risk children do not see pediatric dentists regularly. Severe tooth decay, which affects more than one of seven preschool children and over half of elementary school students, is an infectious disease initiated by the bacteria Streptococcus mutans. Prolonged exposure of the teeth to sugary liquids like milk, formula or fruit juice causes the bacteria to multiply rapidly and demineralize protective tooth enamel, resulting in decay. Francisco J. Ramos-Gomez, associate professor in the Department of Growth and Development, Division of Pediatric Dentistry in the UCSF School of Dentistry, will address emerging research on bacteriology as it relates to tooth decay and discuss cultural behaviors and practices that may introduce Streptococcus mutans bacteria into a child's mouth. Alan Hoffman, a Merced pediatric dentist, will talk about prevention, early diagnosis and referral.
Dinner is included.
The program is sponsored by Mercy Hospital and Health Services, University of California Cooperative Extension, Yosemite Dental Society, Merced-Mariposa Medical Society, Merced County Department of Public Health and the California Program on Access to Care.