This February, we are celebrating National Children’s Dental Health Month! This is the perfect time to heighten awareness about children’s dental oral health and hygiene, and is a great time for parents to discover how they can best support their kids’ dental care.
The American Dental Association celebrated the first Children’s Dental Health Day in 1949, and in 1981, it started as a month-long commemoration. Until today – 41 years later – National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) continues to be promoted in the month of February.
More than ever, raising awareness of children’s oral health is extremely essential for the community. Tooth decay is still the most typical childhood chronic illness. Celebrating children’s oral health awareness through disseminating information about prevention awareness and continuing education programs will help encourage parents to acknowledge the seriousness of dental disease in children.
Why is this month-long celebration important?
To ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles, this month is all about raising awareness of the significance of teaching children good oral habits early on. Parents, as well as caregivers, play a critical role in this. Support your children’s dental health by working with your dental health provider on topics such as:
- Healthy gums
- Tooth decay
- Getting your child acquainted with their dental health provider
- Prevention of crowded teeth
This year, the theme is “Sealants Make Sense.” Irene Hilton, D.D.S., chair of the ADA Council on Advocacy for Access and Prevention’s advisory committee on dental sealants, emphasized on the role of sealants in tooth cavity prevention.
“Sealants on permanent molars reduce the risk of caries by 80%. If your dentist recommends dental sealants, it is part of a comprehensive caries management approach. I am excited that this year” National Children” Dental Health Month theme is about dental sealants, so more families are aware of this cavity-preventing treatment.”
Visiting your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings and an oral examination, as well as maintaining good daily oral care habits are two of the steps you and your children can take towards a healthier and happier mouth!
Schedule an appointment – this is one of the best ways to celebrate NCDHM. Your children will be more comfortable with their dentist the more they spend time with them. If you schedule a dental appointment this month, your kid’s next dental appointment will be just in time before going back to school in August!
Purchase new toothbrushes – Ideally, toothbrushes should be replaced every three months. Get your children excited about their dental hygiene routine by letting them pick their toothbrushes (and toothpaste).
Check on your children’s brushing technique – this is a great time to check your kid’s brushing habits. Offer helpful tips that will help them form great habits to last a lifetime.
This National Children’s Dental Health Month, dedicate some time to promote good dental habits with your family, especially your little ones. Keep up with your dental appointments, treat the entire family to new toothbrushes, and double-check if your child knows the proper way of brushing teeth.
