National Children’s Dental Health Month

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February is National Children’s Dental Health Month.

  • 17% of America’s Kids don’t get the dental health care they need.
  • About 1 in 5 children ages 5-11 years have at least one untreated decayed tooth
  • Children need help brushing and flossing until they can clearly write their own name.
  • 44% of Kids will suffer from a pediatric dental disease
  • Parents should have their child see a dentist by their 1st birthday
  • Healthy Kid’s Teeth 2-2-2 Rule Visit your dentist TWO times a year, and brush and floss TWO times a day for TWO whole minutes.

Children's Dental Health Month

We’ve collected 4 of our best dental tips for kids that every parent needs to know.

Tip #1: KIDS SHOULD SEE THE DENTIST FOR THE FIRST TIME BY AGE 1. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, and American Academy of Pediatrics ALL recommend that every child see a dentist by age 1. When does 1+1 = 0? One tooth + One visit to the dentist = No cavities. We chose this tip as the first one because it is the most commonly asked question of dentists by new parents. In our opinion, it’s never too early to bring your child in and let them begin getting comfortable. The more they come with you and see what you’re doing the more comfortable they will be! There is no such thing as a child too young to deserve good oral health.

Tip #2: KIDS SHOULD BRUSH INDEPENDENTLY BY 6 AND FLOSS BY 10. An appropriate target age for brushing independently is around age 6. A good indicator for this is around the same time a child learns to tie their shoes or are finishing kindergarten. Flossing takes a little longer. Most kids shouldn’t floss without the help of a parent until around age 10. It’s important to teach kids how to brush and floss independently, but it’s just as important that, as parents, we make sure they are doing what it takes to adequately clean their teeth and gums.

Tip #3: SEALANTS FOR KIDS HELP PREVENT CAVITIES IN THE PITS OF MOLARS. We frequently seal first (6-year) and second (12-year) molars to prevent the often-deep pits and fissures from harboring cavity-causing bacteria. We typically roughen the surface of the pits and grooves and paint a thin layer of sealer into the groove to protect the tooth. This won’t stop a cavity, but it does a lot to prevent one from forming! This is a quick and easy procedure and kids won’t even know the sealant is there! “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Tip #4: YOUR CHILD’S DIET CAN DETERMINE THE HEALTH OF HIS/HER TEETH. Calcium is very important in the formation of strong teeth. Most 8-14-year-olds don’t get enough of it in their diet! Milk and cheeses are the easy way, but if your young ones don’t consume dairy, consider almonds, white/red beans or even oranges. A daily multivitamin, which you choose with the help of your child’s pediatrician, may also be beneficial. In addition to creating a strong foundation for your children’s teeth, it’s also important to avoid food and drinks that are acidic or full of sugar. Remember, your kids will learn their eating habits from you! Set a good example by eating a healthy, varied diet and always brush and floss your own teeth. It’s good for your kids and good for your own journey toward whole body wellness!