The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes and honors dental professionals committed to the healthcare of children. You can celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month throughout February. Use this opportunity to learn how to increase awareness about better dental hygiene in children and promote quality dental care for your kids.
What Is National Children’s Dental Health Month?
The first celebration of Children’s Dental Health Day happened on February 8, 1949. By 1981, the ADA expanded the celebration to an entire month. After 40 years, National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) continues to promote children’s dental health.
It’s critical for communities to recognize the importance of oral health, especially in kids. The most common chronic childhood disease is tooth decay. Prevention awareness and educational programs are available to motivate parents and other adults to understand how serious dental disease can be.
Raising Awareness About Children’s Dental Health
NCDHM aims to raise awareness about teaching kids how to practice good oral hygiene from a young age. If brushing and flossing become habits early on in life, more people can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful smile and healthy teeth and gums.
Parents and caregivers are the first advocates for children. You can spend February helping promote dental health and extend your efforts throughout the rest of the year. You could work together with dental professionals and talk to your kids about:
- Healthy gums later on in life
- How a dental office works
- Tooth decay
- Preventing crowded teeth
Maintain good hygiene and oral health by scheduling an appointment with your dentist twice each year. You should have professional cleanings and examinations to discover potential issues and address them before they become severe medical conditions. Your child can reap the benefits of successful dental health by learning its importance at a young age.
Celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month
Schedule your child’s dentist appointment in February to celebrate NCDHM. Regular cleanings should occur every six months. If you make it a positive experience, your child should feel more comfortable visiting the dentist.
Replace Toothbrushes Frequently
You might not understand the value of replacing your toothbrush regularly. Many people use the same toothbrush for months or years, whether due to a busy schedule or forgetfulness.
It’s best to replace your family’s toothbrushes every three or four months. Frayed bristles can reduce the effectiveness of removing food and tartar from the teeth.
Include your child in the process of selecting a toothbrush. They can choose one with their favorite colors or cartoon character on it. Promoting excitement and interest in dental health improves the chance of a child continuing their healthy habits into adulthood.
Teach the Correct Brushing Technique
During National Children’s Dental Health Month, take the time to teach your children how to brush their teeth the right way. Poor technique can be just as ineffective as not brushing teeth at all. Ensure that your kids know the correct toothpaste to use and the amount of time they should spend brushing each day.
Contact Babylon Dental Care
Babylon Dental Care has provided patients with quality dental services since 1983. We believe every adult, child, and family deserves the routine care and treatment necessary to keep their teeth, gums, and mouth healthy.
If you want to learn about the children’s dentistry services we offer, call us at (631) 983-6665 right now for an appointment.
