Did you know that February is National Children’s Dental Health Month? It is! And in honor of this annual month-long observation of children’s oral health, the American Dental Association is urging people to “Defeat Monster Mouth.” What better way to have important conversations with your children than by introducing the topic with this fun theme!
The ADA wants to use the month of February to encourage dentists, health care providers, teachers, parents and other caregivers to teach kids how important their teeth and gums are, and how to properly care for them. That includes not only brushing and flossing, but making sure that they eat tasty foods and drinks that are good for their oral health.
So take some time during the month of February to talk to your kids about what an important role their teeth and gums play in their lives. Look into books and other teaching tools that present oral health tips for kids in a fun way. Make sure your kids are brushing and flossing on a regular basis, and that they’re doing so properly. Consider going on a dental shopping trip with your little one, and find a kid-themed toothbrush, flavored toothpaste and a fluoride mouth rinse designed for kids – making sure that all these products are ADA approved before you buy them.
February is also a good reminder for parents of how important it is to take your kids into the dentist on a regular basis. If you haven’t already scheduled an appointment for their next exam and cleaning, call your dentist this month. Remember that good oral health requires not only a daily hygiene routine at home, but regular trips to the dentist as well.
But National Children’s Dental Health Month involves more than just encouraging parents, teachers and health care providers to educate their kids about good oral health habits, although that’s certainly an important part of the observance. Both the American Dental Association and dentists all around the country celebrate it by providing free oral health care to kids on February 6th, which is “Give Kids a Smile Day.”
As parents, nothing means more to us than the health and wellbeing of our kids. And, thanks to the American Dental Association, February is a great month to focus on that. Remember that dental health affects our overall health, and that goes for your little ones as well. So, smile! And celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month with your family.