The Tribune

By Dr Tamika Ferguson

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. This month-long initiative brings together dental professionals, health care providers and many others in the effort to promote the benefits of good oral health in children.

The habits children establish at an early age are critical in maintaining good oral health throughout life. This is the 63rd year of National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) and the continual goal each year is for dental teams, parents and teachers to educate children on the importance of taking care of their teeth. They are equipped with the knowledge to maintain beautiful and healthy smiles now and into adulthood.

There are three steps to a healthy smile that should be stressed throughout the month:

1. Eat healthy

2. Brush twice daily and floss

3. Visit the dentist

One of the most important steps in preventing tooth decay in children is monitoring their diet. Most children love eating candy, drinking soda, and consuming other sugary treats. While the above listed items may taste good, they have a harmful effect on our teeth. Everyone knows a balanced, nutritious diet is essential to healthy living.

If your nutrition is poor, the first signs often show up in your oral health. As parents/guardians, it’s time to protect your child’s mouth. By decreasing their sugar intake you are preventing caries and the premature loss of baby teeth.

During the month of February, we want children to be motivated to start a daily oral care routine. If a brushing and flossing routine is established from early it will become a way of life. Children (and adults) should brush their teeth twice daily, in the morning and before bed.

At a young age, some parents may have to brush their child’s teeth for them until they are able to do so properly. Flossing is also very important. Once the teeth are in contact, flossing should be done once daily.

NCDHM is an opportunity for dentists worldwide to change the image many children have about the dental environment. By visiting schools and interacting with students, we want children to learn the dentist is a friend. From the visits so far to various schools in New Providence, students appeared excited and eager to learn about dental health. Further, parents/guardians should take their child to a dentist at an early age. By dentists being more visible and children growing up in the environment, the child will build a trusting relationship with their dentist and not dread twice a year visits.

From a young age children need to understand the importance of taking care of their teeth and their body in general. An unhealthy mouth can lead to difficulty eating, sleeping and paying attention in school. It is up to us to teach the right practices to equip them for the future. There are some fun activities that can assist in your child learning about a healthy lifestyle.

For National Children’s Dental Health Month there are colouring and activity sheets that can be found online to aid parents, simply search “activities NCDHM”.

February may be National Children’s Dental Health Month, but it is vital parents, teachers and health care providers encourage children to take care of their teeth all year long.