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National Children's Dental Health Month

  • Published
  • By Major (Dr.) Marie-Antonette C. Brancato
  • 325th Aerospace Medical-Dental Squadron
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  February is National Children's Dental Health Month. This year's American Dental Association campaign theme is, "For a Sparkly Smile, Remember to Brush and Floss Everyday!" This is a month long observance to promote the benefits of good oral health to children. Attitudes and habits established at an early age are important in maintaining good oral health throughout life.

Parents can help their children avoid cavities by providing a balanced diet, limiting snacks, brushing and flossing everyday and with regular dental check-ups. These are keys to a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. The most common chronic disease of childhood is tooth decay or dental caries. It is preventable in most cases and occurs generally due to lack of proper oral hygiene, poor dietary or lifestyle habits. Children retain and follow the habits which they learn during childhood and hence it becomes essential to instill good oral habits which will last a lifetime and prevent many oral conditions and diseases.

Proper oral hygiene must be emphasized starting in infancy and should be continued throughout life. Here are some preventive measures that should be followed:

· After feeding, clean your infant's gums with a wet washcloth. This removes adherent food and stimulates the gums.

· Do not use a milk or sugary drink filled bottle as a sleep aid for your infant. Do not let your infant sleep with the bottle in his/her mouth as this can cause baby bottle tooth decay.

· When the first tooth starts to erupt, generally around 6 months of age, use a small soft bristled toothbrush. Toothpaste is not recommended until at least age 2 and then use only a pea-sized amount. Teach children proper brushing techniques when they are about 2-3 years old.

· Brushing must be done by the parents until the child is proficient in cleaning his/her own teeth, about age 6. Of course, children should be encouraged to have "their turn" in order to learn and develop a good habit. Also, parents should floss their child's teeth as soon as any two teeth touch together. If you have any difficulties, be sure to ask your dentist about different ways to accomplish this task more easily.

· An important part of preventative care is your child's first visit to the dentist which should be around age 1. Ensure regular visits to the dentist after this. A child's first visit should be fun. A child who perceives the dental team as a friend rather than a foe will find visits much easier and is more likely to continue the life-long habit of regular dental visits.

· Keep a check on the amount of sugar your kids eat and encourage brushing and flossing after every meal.

Healthy habits start early on in life, be sure to get your child off to a good start with early dental visits, proper tooth brushing and flossing and a lot of smiling.