Did You Know This Month Is National Children's Dental Health Month?

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For many children throughout the country February is a month to pass out carefully signed Valentine's Day cards to friends, and a month to learn about the presidents of our great country. But there is more than love and presidents to celebrate in February, it is also a month to celebrate a healthy smile. Across the nation February is National Children's Dental Health Month (NCDHM). Many elementary school teachers across the U.S. include oral health and hygiene into their curriculum during the month of February.

National Children's Dental Health Month is sponsored by the American Dental Association (ADA). Every February, this worthwhile cause is supported by the efforts of pediatric and general dentists, who donate their time and expertise to improve the overall dental wellness of local children.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, over 50 percent of children have tooth decay before the age of five, and of the four million children born each year, more than half will have cavities by the time they reach the second grade. Unfortunately, proper treatment of tooth decay is time consuming as well as costly. According to the May 2000 Surgeon General's Report, Oral Health in America, more than 51 million school hours are lost each year to dental-related conditions.

Parents are strongly encouraged to be diligent when it comes to the oral health of their children. Many dentists also recommend that parents bring their children for their first dental visit by age one, then maintain consistency with regular cleanings and exams thereafter. This bit of advice is not meant to extend a long list of things to do by adding hours of time at the dentist; but instead it is to prevent spending more time there in the future. Parents can lower their time and financial costs associated with dental decay and other dental issues by bringing their children in for routine oral check-ups. As the saying goes, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." A little time this month learning about proper dental hygiene for our children can go a long ways in helping them in the future.

So, Happy February!! In a month of conversation hearts and George Washington's cherry pie, don't forget to brush your teeth after those treats, and also -- don't forget to see your dentist regularly. When it comes to healthy smiles, there is a lot to celebrate.

About the Author:
Layne Benzley, DDS is the owner/operator of Castle Rock Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, located in Castle Rock, Colorado. He specializes in gentle, comprehensive oral health services for children, including preventative care, restorative services and pediatric dental sedation. Visit Castle Rock Smiles Pediatric Dentistry online or schedule an appointment by calling 303.660.5373.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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