This month marks the 64th year of National Children’s Dental Health Month. Throughout February, thousands of dedicated dental professionals, health-care providers and others will promote the benefits of good oral hygiene to kids, parents, caregivers and teachers.

The American Dental Association sponsors National Children’s Dental Health Month each February by offering free downloadable information, kid-friendly oral health worksheets, and games on MouthHealthy.org, the ADA’s consumer website. While on the website click on the “MouthHealthyKids” tab on the left side to find a variety of age-appropriate games, activities and presentations designed to promote healthy habits for children and adults. 

The ADA is also offering a new symptom checker on the site designed to help parents understand dental symptoms and what they mean in order to make the most informed decision about their children’s oral health. This year’s slogan is “Sugar Wars.”

This year, the 75th Dental Squadron on Hill Air Force Base, will be doing its part by visiting six schools in the area and making contact with over 1,000 children. During the visits, the dental clinic will be educating youth on the importance of healthy eating, proper brushing/flossing techniques and visiting a dentist on a regular basis.

Dental disease can lead to a number of complications later in life, including problems with eating, sleeping, paying attention and self-confidence with smiling. Parents are urged to promote healthy habits early in life, such as brushing twice daily with an age-appropriate toothpaste and toothbrush, flossing regularly, and maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet. It’s also important to schedule regular dental visits to address and limit tooth decay in its earliest stages.

Families who don’t have a regular dentist are encouraged to use the ADA Find-A-Dentist feature online using a zip code search to help locate a dentist in their community. Information found on this tab includes locations, phone listings, office hours and insurances accepted, as well as languages spoken at the office.

The men and women of the 75th Dental Squadron proudly support National Children’s Dental Health Month every year in an effort to support the community.