February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

No doubt you’ve been hearing about the importance of oral hygiene since you were a kid. By adopting proper oral hygiene practices, you can prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, so it’s the perfect time of year to emphasize the importance of oral care in kids.

National Children’s Dental Health Month

National Children’s Dental Health Month was started by the American Dental Association (ADA). The ADA started National Children’s Dental Health Month with the intention of emphasizing the importance of dental health in kids. After all, good habits start young. Being able to teach proper oral hygiene to young people is key because they will carry these good habits into adulthood. In February, thousands of dental professionals come together to promote the benefits of proper oral hygiene through a variety of programs offered in schools and dental and orthodontic offices across the country.

How National Children’s Dental Health Month Began

The observance began as a one-day event in Ohio in 1941. The ADA started its own national observance a few years later in 1949. In 1981, the celebration evolved into a month-long tribute to kids’ teeth. The goal has remained the same since the beginning: promote proper oral hygiene among kids.

The Importance of Proper Oral Hygiene

If you develop good oral hygiene habits as a child, you’re more likely to carry these habits into your adult years and as a result, avoid some of the problems associated with tooth decay and gum disease. Parents can help their children stay ahead of the game by promoting these oral hygiene practices:

• Brushing and flossing regularly
• Proper brushing and flossing techniques
• Avoiding too much soda and sugary foods
• Eating nutritious foods
• Seeing your dentist for regular dental check-ups
• Visiting an orthodontist at age seven to see if early treatment is needed

By adopting these best practices for good oral health as early as possible, children can avoid more serious problems later.

Oral hygiene can have an impact on overall health. By taking preventative measures now, with proper oral hygiene, children are in a better position to be healthy as adults.

At Charleston Orthodontic Specialists, we’re excited to get started on your journey to a spectacular smile! Call (843) 4-BRACES to speak with one of our friendly professionals today!