February is National Children’s Dental Health Month
Taking Care of Your Child’s Oral Health is Especially Important
Developing good oral health habits at an early age and visiting the dentist regularly help children get a great start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. While true any time, it is especially important for parents to take care of their child’s and their own oral health during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic to prevent oral disease.
Raise awareness about the importance of oral health.
National Children’s Dental Health Month is meant to raise awareness about the importance of oral health.
Why is this SO important?
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children. The good news is…there are safe and effective preventive measures that can protect teeth in children.
Protect Tiny Teeth
Baby teeth are so important because of their key role of saving space for a child’s permanent teeth. They stay in a child’s mouth for 8-10 years and also affect their speaking, chewing, and, of course, smiling. Baby teeth can also indicate a child’s overall quality of health. Untreated tooth decay can cause oral infections that enter the bloodstream and lead to other serious health problems, while also allowing bacteria to spread to new adult teeth.
Here are a few healthy tips:
It is never too early to start cleaning your baby’s gums. Damp washcloth over the gums to clear away harmful bacteria.
Once your baby’s teeth touch, you can start flossing in between them.
Kids ages 3 and up should use only a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Make Brushing Fun!
- Play a “toothbrush song” or play a video.
- Sesame Street: Healthy Teeth, Healthy Me
Begin brushing your baby’s teeth when you see one coming in with an infant toothbrush.
- Use water and a tiny bit of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
- Use fluoride toothpaste that carries the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance.
Around age 2, your child should learn to spit while brushing
Always supervise kids younger than 6 while brushing, as they are more likely to swallow toothpaste.
2021 ADA National Children’s Dental Health Month Campaign:
“Water, Nature’s Drink!”
The February 2021 National Children’s Dental Health Month is brought to you by the ADA. This month-long national health observance brings together thousands of dedicated professionals, healthcare providers, and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, their caregivers, teachers and many others.
