Children’s Dental Health Month

Every February, the American Dental Association sponsors National Children’s Dental Health Month. And at the office of Roderick A. Garcia, DMD, we feel it’s an important movement to support.

What Is National Children’s Dental Health Month?

National Children’s Dental Health Month is about raising awareness about the importance of dental health and developing good dental habits at an early age.As a dental practice that welcomes families and is experienced in treating children, we understand how important that message is. One of our main goals is to help our patients and their children established good dental hygiene habits for life.

Why was National Children’s Dental Health Month Established?

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease. The statistics include:

Of children ages 2 to 11, 40% have 1 or more cavities in their baby teeth
Of children ages 16 to 19 years, more than two-thirds have had a cavity in their permanent teeth
The rate of tooth decay in preschool-aged children has increased in recent years

And the fact is, tooth decay is almost entirely preventable.

Celebrating National Children’s Dental Month with Your Children

There are many safe and effective preventative measures when it comes to the health of your children’s teeth. February is a wonderful month to talk to your kids about good dental hygiene, including:

Teaching good oral hygiene practices
Talking to them about the important of good dental hygiene
Teaching by example with your own dental hygiene habits
Looking through the NIDR’s dental health education materials
Taking your child to the dentist for regular check-ups

You can also read several of our past blogs about teaching your kids good brushing habits and establishing good dental hygiene habits for children. If you need more information and more tips, make an appointment with Dr. Garcia for you and your family! We’re always here to help you maintain your beautiful smiles, whether you’re 1 or 100.And don’t forget to ask about our current in-office specials when you call!