Opening Statement:
Dental hygiene is one of the most important things we should do not only for ourselves but also to teach to our young children, early enough in their lives regarding good dental health. Unfortunately, for a lot of parents, getting their children to brush and floss their teeth is like pulling teeth. But if we want to protect our kids from having their teeth pulled out at some point in their lives, we must show them the ins and outs of proper dental health as well as a once-a-year preventative check up at the dentist. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. A project of the American Dental Association and Crest + Oral B, this program can provide parents with the tools they need to teach the children about dental and oral health.
The 2024 Campaign’s Slogan Covers the Basics:
“Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth for a healthy smile.”
National Children’s Dental Health Month Timeline
· February, 1981 - Dental Health Gets a Whole Month
The program is changed to a month-long celebration.
· February 8, 1949 - First National Children's Dental Health Day Celebrated
The ADA observes the first National Children’s Dental Health Day.
· August 3, 1859 - American Dental Association Is Founded
The ADA is founded by 26 dentists who meet in Niagara Falls, New York. The first president is William Henry Atkinson, a dentist from Cleveland and a pioneer in dental surgery.
National Children’s Dental Health Month Activities
· Spread The Word
· he ADA and Crest + Oral B provide a comprehensive list of ways to publicize National Children's Dental Health Month. Parents might want to send a letter to the editor of their local newspaper or organize an event at their local elementary schools.
· Work On Arts and Crafts Projects with The Kids
The ADA website (ada.org) has lots of fun things to do regarding National Children's Dental Health Month. You can even download puzzles and coloring pages for the kids directly from the site.
· Brush And Floss Together
Make brushing and flossing a regular part of daily activities with your children. After all, kids learn best when they have an adult to show them the right way.
Why We Love National Children’s Dental Health Month
· It's About More Than Just Teeth
Teaching kids about good oral hygiene is vital to keeping them healthy. And by developing good habits in one area, it will be easier for kids to develop good habits in other areas of their lives.
· It Reminds Us to Floss, Too
We can teach our kids to floss, thereby instilling a good habit early in life. But National Children's Dental Health Month also reminds parents to floss, too!
· The Poster Is Totally Awesome
The fun, colorful and vibrant poster for National Children's Dental Health Month showcases the "Tooth Team" and provides a few tips on dental hygiene.
Closing Statement:
What I learned preparing this article was the best way to get involved during National Children’s Dental Health Month (and all year round) is to educate children and organize interactive sessions in schools or community centers to teach children about the importance of brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups. Also, another great idea is to distribute educational materials, share pamphlets, brochures, and posters on children’s dental health with parents, caregivers, and teachers. Remember to arrange dental checkups and start encouraging other parents to schedule dental appointments for their children. Some dental clinics offer free or reduced-cost checkups during this month. If you can organize and host a Dental Health Workshop where children can learn proper brushing and flossing techniques through fun and engaging activities it would be a wonderful initiative. Try your best to support local community initiatives and collaborate with local dental professionals and organizations to organize community-wide events such as free dental screenings and fluoride treatments.
Source of Information: Various Google Searches
Until Next Week, Stay Safe and Well!