National Children’s Dental Health Month
As some of you may know, February is National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM). During this month, we at at Pediatric Dentistry like to inform parents and children about the fun and importance of making sure your kids have clean, healthy teeth.
How Did National Children’s Dental Health Month Start?
National Children’s Dental Health Month started off as a small ordeal in the city of Cleveland, Ohio back in 1941. This event was merely a one day event before the American Dental Association (ADA) picked it up and made it a month long event by 1955. Now, in its 77th year since inception, this month-long event has brought light to the importance of making sure children have responsible oral habits.
Tips For Healthy Pediatric Teeth
According to the ADA, dental caries (cavities) are the most common chronic disease for children aged 6-11 and adolescents aged 12-19. Even worse, the CDC reports that tooth decay is four times more common than asthma among adolescents between 14-17. To avoid these problems from happening to your children, here are some helpful reminders:
Consistency
Have your kids brush their teeth at least twice a day, brushing for two minutes each time. Use a timer and brush with your kids to show by example.
Flossing
Floss every time they brush to get the plaque that toothbrushes cannot reach!
Dental Cleanings
Schedule a dental cleaning every six months to have one of our kind pediatric dentists examine for bacteria build up under the surface.
Talk With Your Kids
Make sure that your kids feel comfortable with brushing their teeth and know the importance of dental hygiene. If you’re nervous that your kids are not brushing enough, they most likely are not.
Pediatric Dentists in Iowa
Pediatric Dentistry has been serving the Greater Des Moines area with over 50 years of combined experience between Dr. Barsetti and Dr. Whittemore. If you are looking to schedule your child’s 6-month cleaning, contact us to setup an appointment. We have offices in Des Moines and Ankeny and are always accepting of first time patients.