February marks National Children’s Dental Health Month. It shines a spotlight on the importance of dental health for our youngest smiles. Dr. Johnson and our Rehoboth Beach team recognize the importance of this celebration every February. Our mission? To see that every child in Sussex County has the resources they need to support lifelong dental health. This month, we’re doubling down on our efforts to educate, inspire, and equip our community’s children with the tools they need for a radiant smile. Join us as we share the significance of this particular month and how Johnson Orthodontics is making a difference, one smile at a time.
What Is National Children’s Dental Health Month?
National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) goes back to a single-day event in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1941. It was aimed at increasing dental health awareness among children. By 1955, the American Dental Association (ADA) recognized its importance, officially marking a day of observance. In 1981, the ADA expanded the celebration to the entire month of February. This expansion represented a commitment to deepen the impact on children’s dental health across the United States. Today, NCDHM stands as a testament to the ongoing effort to educate children and their caregivers about the importance of optimal oral hygiene practices.
Why Does NCDHM Matter?
National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) helps address childhood’s most common chronic disease: tooth decay. Surprisingly, this condition is more prevalent than asthma. It affects over 40% of children before they even step into kindergarten. Tooth decay can lead to:
- Severe infections
- Difficulties in eating
- Speech problems
- Deficiencies in learning ability
Reports from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) reveal a stark reality: children who lack good oral health are more likely to miss school and receive lower grades. The observance of NCDHM is vital because it spreads awareness of preventive measures. Dr. Johnson believes in educating families and children about the importance of regular dental check-ups. Every child should understand proper brushing, flossing, and healthy eating habits. NCDHM plays a pivotal role in preventing cavities and promoting lifelong dental health.
How Johnson Orthodontics Honors NCDHM
Dr. Johnson remains a staunch advocate for early dental health education. To that end, our team has taken a proactive approach to National Children’s Dental Health Month. For the past several years, we have donated toothbrushing kits to every second grader in the Cape school district as well as Sussex Academy Elementary School. Every kit contains a child-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, a 2-minute brushing timer, floss, and a brochure explaining the importance of dental and orthodontic check-ups.
Dr. Johnson complemented our celebration of NCDHM with an engaging virtual presentation to educate second graders about the importance of keeping teeth and gums healthy. By focusing on second graders, Johnson Orthodontics targets a critical time when permanent teeth emerge and children can adopt independent brushing habits.
Tips for Parents: Promoting Dental Health at Home
Creating a routine of good dental habits early on will keep your child grinning for many years. Here are some practical tips from Johnson Orthodontics to help you teach your child more about optimal dental health:
Make Brushing and Flossing Fun
- Use a timer to make sure they brush for 2 minutes.
- Choose toothbrushes and toothpaste with their favorite characters.
- Celebrate brushing twice a day as a family activity.
Regular Dental Check-ups
- Stick to your scheduled visits to the dentist every six months for professional cleanings and to catch any issues early.
- Use these visits as educational moments for your child to learn about the importance of dental health.
Healthy Eating Habits
- Encourage nutrition rich in fruits and vegetables and low in sugary snacks.
- Teach them the impact of sugar on teeth and the importance of drinking water.
Lead by Example
- Children mimic their parents, so show them how you take care of your own teeth.
- Share your dental care routine with them, including brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash.
By putting these tips into your daily routine, you’re not just caring for your child’s teeth but teaching them the importance of self-care and responsibility. Johnson Orthodontics is here to support you every step in your family’s dental health journey.
Orthodontic Care and Children’s Dental Health
Orthodontic treatment makes smiles shine and promotes overall dental health for children. Johnson Orthodontics emphasizes the importance of integrating orthodontic evaluations into your child’s dental health regimen. Here’s how orthodontic care contributes to your child’s dental well-being:
Early Detection
- Identifies misalignments and bite issues before they become more complex.
- Helps in planning ahead for necessary treatments.
Preventive Measures
- Addresses potential problems that could lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and having trouble chewing or speaking.
- Encourages the proper development of jaws and teeth.
Ideal Timing for Evaluation
- The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation around age 7.
- Early visits allow for monitoring of the jaw’s growth patterns and the emergence of permanent teeth.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Care
- Can move permanent teeth into a more favorable position.
- Reduces the risk of needing tooth extractions in the future.
- Shortens the time spent in braces during teenage years.
Celebrate Children’s Dental Health With Johnson Orthodontics
Dr. Johnson and our team at Johnson Orthodontics want every child in Rehoboth Beach to get the orthodontic care they need at the right time. By focusing on early evaluation and treatment, we aim to prevent future dental woes. We want your kids to love their smiles (and their faces!). But we also want them to know how to keep those smiles forever. With your help, we can lay the groundwork for a lifetime of superior oral health. Visit us here to schedule your free consultation. And Happy National Children’s Dental Health Month!