Children's Dental Health Month
National Children's Dental Health Month
"Sealants Make Sense"
The ADA’s Children’s Dental Health Day was first celebrated on February 8, 1949. It became a month-long commemoration in 1981. 40 years later, children’s dental health continues to be promoted throughout February for National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM). Celebrating children’s oral health awareness is incredibly important for the community. Tooth decay remains the most common chronic childhood disease. Continuing educational programs and prevention awareness will help motivate more parents and other adults to recognize the seriousness of children’s dental disease.
Keeping up with daily oral care and visiting the dentist at least twice a year for an oral examination and professional cleanings are steps you can take towards a happier and healthier mouth! Setting the foundation for your child earlier in life will set your child up for success in the future.
When is the first dental visit recommended?
First Tooth or
First Birthday
The American Association of Pediatric Dentists recommends that parents establish a dental home for their child by their first tooth or first birthday. During this time, parents/guardians will have the opportunity to ask questions and address any dental concerns at the primary visit and the dentist will gently swab the child’s mouth to check their gums and any erupted teeth. As the child starts teething, the dentist will be able to monitor their progress and implement preventative measures for any concerns with your baby’s teeth.
The Most Common Condition in Childhood
The most common condition among children is largely preventable! According to the AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry), dental caries/cavities are four times more common than childhood asthma and three times more likely than childhood obesity. By age 5 about 60% of children will experience tooth decay.
Early Intervention for a Lifetime of Health
Tooth decay
Getting your child familiar with their dentist’s office
Preventing crowded teeth
Healthy gums in later years
Also, early intervention with orthodontics, or braces, will assist in proper alignment and development of the teeth into teenage years. If you notice crowding in your child’s teeth, or that the upper teeth are covering the lower they may be a candidate.
Back to Basics: Tips to
Keep Your Child on Track
Schedule routine check-ups. Brush twice each day for two minutes and begin flossing as soon as two teeth contact. Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Snack healthy! Give kids calcium-rich snacks like cheese or low-sugar yogurt. Stay hydrated! Avoid sugary drinks and stick to good old-fashioned water. Water helps to rinse away any sugar or particles that can lead to cavities. Replace your child’s toothbrush every three to four months.
