Childrens’ dental health awarness
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and here at Bright Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we want to spend some time focusing on the importance of establishing good oral health habits early on. What better way to celebrate this month than to learn about the importance of children’s dental health?
Healthy Habits Start Early
When it comes to children’s dental health, what age group immediately pops into your mind? Is it toddlers and young kids only? Children’s dental health starts much earlier than that. In fact, many parents are surprised to learn that their baby’s teeth are at risk for decay! When decay develops in infants and toddlers, it is often referred to as “baby bottle tooth decay.” Tooth decay in babies and toddlers often occurs in the upper front teeth. To prevent cavities, make sure you start cleaning your children’s teeth as soon as they come in. You can use a moist gauze pad if it is too early to use a toothbrush. Also, be sure to schedule an appointment with our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bright, as soon as the first tooth erupts.
Get Your Kids Involved in Their Dental Health
At MouthHealthyKids.org there are numerous resources aimed at engaging your children in keeping their mouth healthy. Print out the 2017 brushing calendar to keep your children accountable for their twice-daily brushing. Watch Elmo’s Brushy-Brush video to get kids excited about cleaning their teeth. Learn and sing along to the 7 Tooth Brushing Tunes for Kids – they’re great for the car, at home, before brushing, or any time! Integrating excitement and fun into your children’s daily brushing routine will make this activity a joy for the whole family.
Raising Awareness About Dental Caries in Children
The purpose of National Children’s Dental Health Month is to raise awareness about the importance of oral health, and to focus specifically on the importance of children’s oral development. Although tooth decay is almost entirely preventable, it remains one of the most chronic health issues in children in the United States. However, through regular brushing, flossing, and check-ups, you can reverse this trend and lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Has your child been to the pediatric dentist yet? Call us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bright of Bright Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. Our gentle and fun team will make sure your little one leaves with a bright and healthy smile!
