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National Children's Dental Health Month

By Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City/Glen Cove January 27, 2015

Each February, the American Dental Association sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month. It is a time to raise awareness about the importance of pediatric oral health. It is important to develop good habits at a young age.  The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that a child have their first visit by age one. This is primarily an informative and educational visit for the parent to help families get a good start on a lifetime of healthy mouths.  There is a lot of focus during this initial visit on basic home habits and diet.

 

Here are a few tips to help keep your children and their teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime!

 

- Schedule your child's first dental visit by their 1st birthday.  Routine check-ups should be every 6 months thereafter.

 

- Encourage healthy eating.  Limit sugary and starchy foods.  Watch out for flavored beverages like juice, flavored milk, iced teas, sodas, etc.  There are hidden sugars and acids that break down enamel faster than most people think!

 

- Brush 2x daily for 2 minutes at a time.  Parents should always help young children brush their teeth.  Don't forget to floss!

 

-Let your child choose a brush with his/her favorite character, so brushing is always fun.

 

- Use fluoridated toothpaste as soon as the first tooth erupts.  Use a rice grain size for toddlers and a pea-sized amount for school aged children.  Speak to a dentist for more specific recommendations for your child. 

Thank you to Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove for providing the above article on Pediatric Dental Health Tips.  For more information or to schedule an appointment please go to: http://pediatricdentistryofgardencity.com/