February is National Children's Dental Health Month

February is National Children's Dental Health Month. February is the month dedicated to promoting good oral health in children. American Dental Association sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health in children. With approximately 20 million children in the United States affected by tooth decay, it is especially important for parents to bring their children to the dentist for regular checkups and to practice good oral hygiene at home.

Parents should establish eating and brushing habits for their children early to prevent cavities and other common oral diseases. In addition to regular teeth cleanings, make sure your child avoids high-sugar foods and beverages such as candy, soda, juice, and energy drinks. For a healthy smile, limit these treats to mealtime and make sure to brush your teeth right after eating or drinking them. Clean between their teeth daily with floss or another interdental cleaner to remove plaque buildup from between the teeth and along the gum line. This helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Importance of Dental Care for Children

The dentist in Aurora, CO, help your child establish good oral health habits that will follow them into adulthood. We teach your children the importance of healthy brushing and flossing techniques, as well as how diet affects their dental health. Additionally, after a thorough exam, the dentist may recommend sealants or fluoride treatments for additional protection. Sealants are applied to the molars to prevent decay; however, these treatments can also benefit both children and adults alike. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel while acting as a shield against bacteria in the mouth.

Tips for Good Dental Health for Children

Good oral health habits start at home – and by taking care of your children's teeth now, you'll set them on a path to a lifetime of healthy smiles! Here are some easy things you can do to promote good oral health for your kids:

• Start brushing your children's teeth as soon as they erupt. Use a toothbrush designed for a small child, and put only a smear of toothpaste on the brush. Then wait for several minutes after your child brushes before giving them something to drink or eat.
• When your child is old enough to brush their own teeth, make sure they do it every day with a soft-bristled child-sized brush. Until they turn eight years old, they should also floss once a day to remove plaque between their teeth and under their gums.
• Help your child develop a healthy habit of eating a well-balanced diet that limits sugary snacks and drinks between meals.
• Make sure to schedule regular checkups every six months for your child to see the dentist for a professional cleaning and an exam. During these visits, your dentist in Aurora, CO, can give you and your child personalized recommendations for maintaining good oral hygiene at home.

Above all else, make sure to make dental care fun for your children! If you make it fun and positive, they'll be much more likely to enjoy having healthy mouths for years to come.

At 5th Ave Smile, our experienced team provides the best dental care for patients in Aurora, CO. To schedule an appointment, call (303) 360-7462 or visit our office at 2044 Clinton St. Suite B, Aurora, CO 80010.