National Children’s Dental Health Month
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tooth decay (cavities) is one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood. If left untreated, tooth decay causes pain and infections which can lead to complications with eating, speaking, and learning. In fact, the CDC states “Children who have poor oral health often miss more school and receive lower grades than children who don’t” (CDC.gov, 2020).
However, tooth decay is preventable if you adopt the following P-E-A-R-L-S of Wisdom:
Source: CDC – Children’s Dental Health
- Protect tiny teeth by caring for your mouth when you’re pregnant. Your child’s future oral health starts with you.
- Ensure to wipe your baby’s gums after each meal.
- Avoid putting babies to bed with a bottle.
- Remember to brush your child’s teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. For children younger than 2 years, consult with your dentist or doctor about when to start using fluoride toothpaste.
- Limit drinks and food with added sugars for children. Encourage your child to eat more fruits and vegetables and have fewer fruit drinks, cookies, and candies. This gives your child the best possible start to good oral health.
- Schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or after their first tooth appears. Their tiny teeth matter!
See the links below for fun activities you can do with your child to encourage healthy dental hygiene habits.
Colgate – 4 Fund Dental Activities For Children
American Dental Association Activity Sheets
30 Fun Ways to Teach Kids About Oral Health
Children’s Dental Health Project – 22 Kids Books for Oral Health Education
