SrA Bethany Swinson, Oral Prophlyaxis Assistant, 5 Operational Medical Readiness Squadron
National Children’s Dental Health Month was established on the 3rd of February 1941, as a one-day event in Cleveland, Ohio. The American Dental Association (ADA) held the first national observance of Children’s Dental Health Day on February 8th, 1949. It then became a week-long event in 1955, and finally in 1981 the program was extended to a month-long observance known today as National Children’s Dental Health Month. Each year thousands of people participate in this event whether its hosting health fairs, speaking at schools, or displaying posters. This event is a great way to educate parents and their children on the importance of pediatric oral hygiene.
Did you know the following facts about children’s dental health and oral hygiene?
- Some babies are born with teeth, called natal teeth. They are different from normal teeth, may not be fully developed, and are generally weak.
- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is the most common chronic disease that affects children.
- Children exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to get cavities.
- You should replace your child’s toothbrush every three to four months; this should be a soft bristled toothbrush.
- Juice, sports drinks, fruit snacks, sticky candies, and goldfish are examples of snacks that can cause tooth decay in your child’s teeth.
- The ADA recognizes the use of fluoride and community water fluoridation as safe and effective in preventing tooth decay for both children and adults.
Fortunately, cavities and poor oral hygiene are completely preventable! This can be accomplished by teaching your child to practice good oral hygiene, brushing and flossing daily, giving your child calcium-rich and low-sugar snacks, staying hydrated with water, and visiting a dentist for regular check-ups. It is important to start good dental habits early in childhood. The ADA recommends scheduling a pediatric dental visit as soon as your child’s first tooth appears and no later than their first birthday. For more information regarding Children’s Dental Health Month and fun activities for your kids, you can visit the ADA website https://www.ada.org/resources/community-initiatives/national-childrens-dental-health-month.