February- National Children's Dental Health Month

FEBRUARY - NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH

Celebrating children’s oral health awareness is extremely essential for the community. National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) was started as a one-day event on 3^rd February 1941 in Cleveland, Ohio.  On 8^th February 1949, American dental association (ADA) held first National children’s Dental health day. This single day event became a week long in 1955 and later in 1981 it extended to a month-long program known today as National Children’s Dental Health Month. This has grown to a nation-wide program.

During the entire month of February, the American Dental Association (ADA) honors and recognizes dental professionals and all who are passionate about children's healthcare.  The best way to bring awareness to pediatric dental health month is to help your child develop a strong oral hygiene routine.

 Why it is important to spread awareness about children’s dental health?

Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease, often problems in primary teeth extend beyond pain, infection and swelling and can cause distress to the child by affecting his ability to chew, communicate, and may also affect the appearance of a child. This alteration in-turn can lead to reduced quality of life in children by affecting their self-esteem negatively & inducing emotional stress, anger and lack of confidence within themselves.

What role does NCDHM play?

NCDHM supports the dental team, teachers, parents and caregivers to learn the importance of children’s good oral habits and also provide resources for doing so. Parents or caregivers are essential and can promote children's dental health this month and throughout the year. Local observances often include displays of posters, coloring and essay contests, health fairs, free dental screenings, museum exhibits, classroom presentations by dentists and other members of the dental team, and dental office tours.

Support children's dental health by working with dental professionals on specific topics such as:

·       Tooth decay

·       How to brush and floss your teeth

·       Getting your child familiar with their dentist's office

·       Preventing crowded teeth

·       Diet and nutrition

·       Healthy gums in later years

 What parents / caregivers can do?

• Help your child learn why it’s important to brush and floss their teeth two times a day.

• Explain the potential problems of neglecting their dental hygiene.

• Lead by becoming an example. Brush and floss your teeth with your child.

• Encourage your child to love their smile and to do everything they can to protect their smile.

• Making an appointment at the dentist for regular dental check-up.

Theme of National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) for February 2022 was

“Sealants Make Sense”