You might think the month of February is about Valentine’s Day and President’s Day, but there’s another important reason to appreciate the second month of the year: February is National Children’s Dental Health Month! And as you can probably guess from the title, it’s an observance created to raise awareness of the benefits of childhood oral health care.
“Defeat Monster Mouth”
That’s the theme of this year’s celebration, which brings together everyone from dental professionals and health care providers to teachers and other child caregivers to share information and spread the word.
Good habits start at an early age
Developing good habits gives children the best chance of having healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime. It starts with good home care — brushing and flossing your teeth, using mouthwash and nutritious eating and snacking – plus regular visits to the dentist.
Good habits for your kids start with you
Even before the first tooth pops out, you should b wiping our baby’s gums with a soft cloth after each feeding. Healthy gums are the start of their healthy teeth, and tooth decay can develop as soon as your child has his or her first tooth.
Your dentist invites you to join the celebration by making sure your child gets the vital care that can help ensure their teeth last a lifetime. Here’s how:
- Schedule that important first dental visit when your child’s first tooth appears or by their first birthday
- Make sure your child has regular dental check-ups (every six months)
- Begin brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they start to come in
- Use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste
- When your child has two teeth that touch, starts once-a-day flossing
- Keep the pacifier clean and make sure it’s one recommended by your dentist
- Limit fruit juice, and only at meal times
- Don’t let your child to fall asleep with a bottle or cup containing anything other than water
- If your tap water isn’t fluoridated, talk to their dentist about fluoride needs
- Supervise your child’s brushing until about eight years old
- Call for an appointment today: 800-717-KIDS.
