February is National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM)! Here at Heroes Dental, we work hard to make sure kids and families know how to protect their dental health for life, and February is the perfect time for us to spread awareness.
If you’d like to make sure your children’s dental health is taken care of, we have some great tips. Start these habits in February and your little ones are sure to enjoy great dental health all year long.
What Is National Children’s Dental Health Month?
National Children’s Dental Health Month is sponsored by the American Dental Association to help promote dental health in children. If you get your kids in the habit of good dental hygiene early, they’re more likely to have healthy teeth for life.
The History of NCDHM
NCDHM started in 1941 as a single day of observance but soon stretched to a week before finally becoming a month-long event in 1981. While it has evolved a bit, the focus has always been on making sure kids have the best start in life.
Good dental health can prevent a number of physical ailments in addition to preventing tooth loss and pain.
Ways To Celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month
If you want some great ways to celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month, all we need to do is break down your typical steps for good oral hygiene. Here are the steps you can take to teach your kid about dental health.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Brushing and flossing are the most important things you can do in your daily life to protect your dental health. Get your kids started early with these habits and it will stick with them for life.
Make sure your children are brushing their teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes. They should also floss at least once a day to get food particles that have been stuck between their teeth.
Don’t forget to get the right toothbrush and replace it regularly.
Talk to Your Kids About Dental Health
Your responsibility as a parent is to ensure your children know how to take care of themselves and their health.
Dental health is an important part of their overall well-being so start talking about it early on so they understand the importance of brushing and flossing. Kids understand more than you think, but you should still keep it age appropriate.
Eat Teeth-Friendly Foods
Your diet has a major effect on your dental health. While kids typically love sugary treats, these types of snacks are terrible for their teeth. Make sure you teach them to only eat sweets in moderation.
Make the majority of your family’s diet foods that are good for their oral health, such as fresh fruits and dairy.
Drink Plenty of Water
Water is the absolute best drink for your teeth. Sugary drinks can cause damage to teeth while water helps wash away damaging acids and food residue.
Staying hydrated also stimulates saliva production, which further helps protect teeth. If your child suffers from dry mouth, talk to your McAllen family dentist about possible solutions.
Go For Your Regular Checkup
You should never skip an appointment with your family dentist if you want to make sure your children’s dental health is taken care of. All the brushing and flossing in the world won’t prevent all tooth decay and damage so you should schedule an appointment with your McAllen family dentist at least twice a year.
During these appointments, your child will have a dental cleaning and the dentist can check for any developing cavities or other changes in their mouth.
Trust Heroes Dental To Protect Your Child’s Dental Health
Don’t wait until your child comes to you complaining of tooth pain. Contact Heroes Dental to schedule a cleaning and help protect their dental health.