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February is Children's Dental Health Awareness Month
Importance of Dental Hygiene
We all try our best to avoid possible infections in even minor cuts and scrapes but did you know that according to the American Dental Association (ADA), tooth decay is the single most common infectious disease affecting U.S. children? Although oral health among the U.S. population, as a whole, continues to improve among 2-to-5-year-olds, tooth decay in primary teeth (also called “baby teeth”) has increased.
Regular dental checkups can help your child stay cavity-free but the most important dental care should occur regularly at home. So, in addition to visiting the dentist, be sure that your child follows these tips provided by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry:
- Avoid frequent snacking on sugary or starchy foods.
- Brush teeth gently, at least twice a day, with special attention to the gum line.
- Floss at least once a day.
- Have a dentist or dental professional apply sealants if appropriate.
- Get proper levels of fluoride in toothpaste, drinking water or through fluoride supplements. *
*Note that the ADA does not recommend fluoride toothpaste for children younger than age 2 and does not recommend fluoride mouth rinses for children younger than age 6.
For more information about dental care for children and teens, read here.
Helping your kids get in the habit of brushing twice a day is key to a lifetime of healthy smiles. What better way to make brushing fun than bringing a beat into your bathroom? Click here for a favorite family-friendly video to brush by.
