National Children's Dental Health Month

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jeff Kurz
  • 341st Medical Operations Squadron
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  As we celebrate National Children's Dental Health Month this February, we hope to raise awareness of the importance of proper oral health. Developing good habits early results in a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Most patients have heard their dental providers give important advice about brushing at least twice daily and flossing once daily.

Begin the journey to great oral health by using a child-size soft-bristled toothbrush daily when the first teeth appear. Give children regular oral cleanings after each meal in order to establish good dental health habits early. Using toothpaste for children is a great way to encourage children to brush. Just make sure that if children are under age 2, the toothpaste does not contain fluoride. Consider looking for a brand made specifically for infants. As soon as two teeth appear, it's time to floss the child's teeth. Parents may have to help them floss properly and regularly until they have developed dexterity to do so on their own. The Malmstrom Dental Clinic recommends using children's floss aids that are gentle on the gums. A simple rule to follow is this: Once children have learned to write the alphabet, they should possess the dexterity needed to begin flossing without assistance.

A healthy balanced diet leads to healthy teeth. Choose nutritious foods such as vegetables, low-fat yogurt or low-fat cheese, and try to avoid snacks that contain sugar or carbohydrates. Limiting the amount of sugar or carbohydrates will help prevent the formation of cavities. Sealants also help prevent oral decay in children. These are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the child's permanent back teeth where most cavities form. Parents should ask a dental provider if this procedure is advantageous to their child. Caries and cavity prevention in early childhood will positively impact oral health throughout life.

Below are scheduled events at Malmstrom Air Force Base, put on by the Dental Flight Preventive Dentistry for National Children's Dental Health Month 2014.

Location Date/Time
Base Library Feb. 18, 10 a.m.
Youth Center Feb. 19, 3 p.m.