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National Children’s Dental Health Month

Did you know February is National Children’s Dental Health Month? The observance of this important health concern during the month of February is to bring dedicated dental professionals, health care professionals, educators and the community together to understand the importance and benefits of good oral health.  Whether you’ve got a brand new bundle of joy or are managing a child in the thick of adolescence, it never hurts to brush up on the latest in oral healthcare for kids. Here are some quick tips to help your child’s oral health:

  • It’s never too early to start good oral hygiene habits
    • Did you know even an infant without teeth can benefit from having their gums gently cleaned with water soaked gauze or clean, damp washcloth?
    • When your baby does get teeth, it’s important to brush them gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush using a thin smear of fluoride toothpaste
    • Your child’s first dentist appointment should be around the first birthday and established regularly
    • Three is the recommended age to begin teaching your child normal brushing techniques, with a small pea-sized dollop of paste
  • You can avoid excess or prolonged consumption of sugar
    • When you consume sugar, the bacteria process it into acid which damages tooth enamel and leads to cavities
    • Reducing sugary snacks and keeping only water in baby bottles at night is the best way to reduce sugar-related tooth decay
  • Prevention of dental accidents is possible
    • For small children, it’s important to make your home a safe place through childproofing because over half of dental injuries to primary teeth are a result of playing near home furniture
    • Ensure kids that are highly active, in contact sports or other activities have the appropriate oral protection gear
  • Fluoridated water can protect kids’ teeth
    • It’s wise to ensure that your water supply contains fluoride, and, if not, talk to your dentist about supplementing through toothpaste, oral rinses, and food

Your child’s dental professional is a partner in health care. There to help prevent disease, lookout for cavities, and watch out for developmental issues, you should always be able to ask important dental questions. Dr. Marc S. Wright is here to help you with all your questions whether it’s your child’s oral health or your own. Call us today!