National Children’s Dental Health Month 2023: “Brush, Floss, Smile”

National Children’s Dental Health Month 2023 : National Children’s Dental Health Month is celebrate in February every year, thanks to the American Dental Association (ADA). This public health event aims to raise awareness among parents, caregivers, teachers and healthcare providers like pediatric dentists in Spring about the significance of instilling proper dental hygiene and care practices in children.

The Brush, Floss, Smile! slogan for this year aims to educate kids and caregivers about the significance of regular teeth brushing and flossing. The American Dental Association (ADA) has develop entertaining games and activities to teach children about dental hygiene. You can visit the ADA website to access free educational resources, such as coloring sheets.

National Children’s Dental Health Month 2023

The ideal time for parents and kids to gain insight into oral hygiene is during the month of February. This is because it is recognized as National Children’s Dental Health Month. The American Dental Association (ADA) collaborates with dental practitioners and healthcare providers throughout February to promote consciousness about children‘s oral health care

In 1949, the inaugural Children’s Dental Health Day was commemorate on February 8th. Fast forward to 1981, it evolve into a month-long celebration and eventually became known as National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) in February, which has been upheld for four decades. It is of utmost significance to recognize and promote awareness of children’s oral health for the betterment of society.

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National Children’s Dental Health Month 2023 Highlight

What is National Children’s Dental Health Month?

Childhood dental caries continues to be the prevalent chronic disease. Raising awareness through continuing education initiatives and prevention campaigns can encourage parents and other adults to comprehend the gravity of children’s oral health issues.

This month and all year round, the role of parents or caregivers in promoting children’s dental health cannot be overstate. Collaborating with dental professionals on topics such as tooth decay, familiarizing your child with the dentist’s office, and preventing crowd teeth and healthy gums in later years are some ways to support their dental wellbeing.

Brush Up on National Children’s Dental Health Month fun facts

• The incidence of tooth decay among children is increasing, making it the most prevalent chronic infectious disease. However, it can be prevented to a great extent.
• Between 1988-1994 and 1999-2004, there was an almost 17% rise in the occurrence of tooth decay in the primary teeth of children aged 2 to 5 years.
• Tooth decay is likely to affect approximately 60% of children by the time they reach 5 years old.
• Kids who have issues with their oral hygiene are thrice as likely to skip school because of dental pain compared to those who have no such issues.
• According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), it is recommended to schedule a child’s initial dental appointment by 18 months of age.
• Neglecting dental care until the age of 2 or 3 has the potential to negatively impact a child’s oral health.
• According to the survey, almost half of the parents and caregivers are postponing their child’s initial check-up until they reach the age of 2.6 years or later.

February Focus: “Brush, Floss, Smile!”

The slogan for National Children’s Dental Health Month in 2023, “Brush, Floss, Smile!”, aims to educate children and caregivers about the significance of regular teeth brushing and flossing between each tooth.

It is crucial to brush and floss small teeth, however, it is highly recommended by dentists to ensure that your little ones are performing these activities accurately. By establishing appropriate techniques and a consistent routine, children can benefit from it for the rest of their lives.

It is recommended that both children and adults brush their teeth twice daily – once in the morning upon waking up and once before going to bed at night. To ensure proper cleaning, it’s important to use the correct brushing technique which involves placing the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gum line and gently scrubbing the surface of the teeth with small circular motions while keeping the brush in contact with the gums.

It is recommended to brush your tongue by moving the brush from the front to the back of your mouth. It is important to dedicate at least two minutes for a complete oral cleaning. Flossing should begin once two teeth are in contact with each other, just like brushing. However, flossing demands a specific approach that could be challenging for children.

To floss effectively, it is recommended to gently move the floss back and forth between each tooth, and then curve it upwards beneath the gums. Although traditional floss can be used, you may find a floss pick to be more effective. In addition to daily brushing and flossing, regular visits to your dentist are also essential for maintaining good oral health.

How to Celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month?

• Spread the Word: ADA and Crest + Oral B offer a detailed guide on how to promote National Children’s Dental Health Month. One way parents can participate is by writing a letter to the editor of their community newspaper or arranging an activity at their nearby elementary schools.
• Work on Arts and Crafts Projects: The website for ADA (ada.org) offers a variety of enjoyable activities in celebration of National Children’s Dental Health Month. The site provides the option to download coloring pages and puzzles for children.
• Brush and Floss Together: Incorporate brushing and flossing into your daily routine with your children so that they become a consistent habit. It’s important to note that kids tend to learn more effectively when guided by an adult who can demonstrate the correct techniques.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, which presents a perfect opportunity to educate your family about the significance of proper oral hygiene practices. Consistently scheduling dental checkups, switching up toothbrushes, and guiding your child on brushing techniques will contribute to the welfare of your family’s dental health. This initiative will instill a sense of awareness among all members regarding dental health’s relation to overall well-being. By starting early in life, you set the groundwork for your child’s long-term success.

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