Feb 23, 2021
Point Pleasant NJ
www.getinsurancequotetoday.com
National Children's Dental Health Month
During the month of February, the American Dental Association celebrates National Children’s Dental Health Month. This observance aims to raise awareness about the importance of oral health in children. Information shared throughout the month helps parents prioritize their children’s health with oral hygiene tips and tricks.
Did you know that tooth decay is the most chronic disease found in children? Tooth decay is 5 times more common than asthma and 7 times more common than hay fever. Luckily, this can easily be prevented through good dental health and education. Assisting your child in developing good oral health habits will benefit them throughout the rest of their life.
This year, National Children’s Dental Health Month turns 80 and is still going strong. For 2021, the theme is “Water: Nature’s Drink.” This encourages parents to give their children water instead of sugary beverages, improving their oral health and overall well-being.
This February, choose to be an active advocate and participant in your child’s oral health. Here are a few tips to help you with your child’s dental hygiene habits:
It is never too early to start washing your baby’s gums. Use a clean, damp washcloth to clean your baby’s gums and clear away any harmful bacteria. The American Association of Pediatric Dentists recommends that parents establish a dental home for their child by their first tooth or first birthday.
Lead by example. Brush your teeth with your children to encourage healthy habits. Make this a fun activity and remember to brush for at least two minutes, twice a day.
Supervise. Be sure to watch over kids 6 years old or younger when they brush their teeth. Children this age are more likely to swallow toothpaste.
Floss daily. Brushing your teeth only cleans two of the five surfaces of a tooth. Typically, children are not able to thoroughly floss their own teeth until the age of 10. However, you should begin to floss your child’s teeth as soon as you notice the gaps between their teeth close.
Provide calcium. Dairy products contain calcium that strengthens teeth and neutralizes acid, protecting teeth from cavities.
Avoid soda. Sugary, carbonated beverages stain teeth and soften your child’s tooth enamel.
Fruits and veggies! Crunchy fruits and vegetables have high water content and help in washing away food and plaque.
Schedule two dental visits a year. Make sure that everyone in your family is visiting the dentist two times per year for their checkups.
Beginning good oral hygiene routines early in life is critical to long term dental health. Make sure your family’s oral health is on track with a proper dental insurance plan and follow the tips above.
If your looking for Dental Insurance give us a call at I & E Insurance Agency 732-295-5584
We look forward to seeing those life-long, shining smiles!