National Children’s Dental Health Month Resources
Take time in February to focus on National Children’s Dental Health Month. Tooth decay is preventable but unfortunately one of the most common childhood diseases. According to the Center for Disease Control and prevention, 20% of children age 5 to 11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth. Tooth decay is not only painful for a child but it can lead to problems with childhood development.
Tips for Ensuring Your Child Has Healthy Teeth & Gums
- Have a daily dental healthy routine –brush twice a day for two minutes and floss daily. Check out our Fresh Baby’s So Easy First Toothbrush to offer baby a great start to healthy teeth and gums. Great for 5-15 months.
- Choose healthy snacks – download our free MyPlate Super Smile Fun worksheet to help kids learn which foods are healthy for their teeth and which foods are not.
- Choose crunchy foods to help naturally clean teeth. For example, celery sticks, apples and almonds.
- Teach your child about drinking water instead of sugary drinks – download our free lesson plan with fun worksheets for toddlers and preschoolers.
- Drink milk. Jawbones need calcium to stay healthy.
Download our free tooth fairy tip sheet for other great ways to keep your child’s gums and teeth healthy. Additional resources are available at the American Dental Association.
