Dental Health

February is National Children's Dental Health Month. This month-long national health observance 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. Regular brushing consists of brushing twice a day: after breakfast and before going to bed. Cleaning between the teeth is as important as tooth brushing. This is because a toothbrush cannot reach between the teeth and therefore only cleans 50% of the surfaces.

Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children to get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping one's mouth clean and free of disease and other problems (e.g. bad breath) by regular brushing and cleaning between the teeth. It is important that oral hygiene be carried out on a regular basis to enable prevention of dental disease. The most common types of dental disease are tooth decay (cavities, dental caries) and gum diseases, including gingivitis, and periodontitis.

The classroom is a great place to teach dental care and oral health to kids. Help children learn the healthy habits that bring a bright smile and a bright future with this simple dental hygiene curriculum. Teachers have access to dental care material to encourage students to learn how to take care of their mouth and teeth.