It may not get quite the same attention as Valentine’s Day, but February is also National Children’s Dental Health Month. Every year, the American Dental Association (ADA) comes up with a slogan that encapsulates their goals for the month. The 2018 slogan is, “Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth for a healthy smile.”
People used to think that care for baby teeth wasn’t critical. “They’re just going to fall out anyway, so why worry too much about them?” This was the rationale behind the attitude. But nothing could be further from the truth. As the correlation between oral hygiene and overall health has become apparent, so too has the need for great oral care as early as possible. Expectant mothers with gum disease can even transmit bacteria to their children.
Creating strong habits from a young age also sets up your child for great oral health throughout their life. Don’t let your toddler fall asleep directly after drinking milk or juice, as it leaves acid in their mouths all night long, creating a fertile ground for bacteria. Fluoride toothpaste helps protect teeth from acid damage and strengthens enamel.
As children age, have a hygienist teach them proper brushing and flossing techniques. Once they have the tools to brush and floss effectively, encourage them to do so. One great way to do this is to set up a calendar monitoring progress. Place a sticker on the calendar for every day that a child completes their oral care regimen. If the child completes a certain number of days in a row, give them a little prize. As the months progress, you’ll notice them brushing and flossing as a matter of course.
National Children’s Dental Health Month is a reminder that providing a child with the skills and incentive to create great habits is a gift that keeps on giving. Baby teeth may fall out, but the oral care patterns you establish in childhood stick with you forever.