Children’s dental health month

  • Published
  • 5th Medical Operations Squadron
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  February is National Children's Dental Health Month. This month-long national health campaign brings together thousands of dedicated dental professionals, healthcare providers and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, their caregivers, teachers and many others. The Minot Air Force Base Dental Clinic will visit schools in the local district to educate children on oral hygiene care and promote dental wellness. The children will learn about brushing, flossing and healthy eating through fun activities and demonstrations. The 2015 campaign slogan is "Defeat Monster Mouth."

The Dental Clinic's primary mission is to take care of active duty members, but also to raise oral health awareness to the community. Dental caries is one of the most common childhood diseases and can carry a significant financial burden if treatment is delayed.

The American Dental Association recommends that a child's first visit to the dental office take place by their first birthday. Children usually need dental visits more often than adults, because children's teeth have a thinner layer of enamel; so cavities can spread more quickly. During the visit, the dentist will help explain the importance of brushing and flossing and perform an exam.

By age three, children should be brushing their own teeth under parental supervision and by age eight should be able to brush and floss by themselves, with the parent only checking occasionally. Parents should use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for toddlers and should always make sure the child spits the toothpaste out instead of swallowing.

A child's permanent teeth start to grow in around age six. A dentist or a registered dental hygienist can apply sealants to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Sealants are a thin protective coating that helps seal out bacteria and involves no drilling or discomfort.

Everyone can help maintain a child's healthy teeth and gums through a well-balanced diet. Parents can try to limit snacks containing sugars or starch, which can lead to cavities. It is never too early or late to get involved in a child's dental health. A parent's involvement plays an important role to ensure the child has a healthy smile all year long.