February is National Children’s Dental Health Month

Every February, dental professionals and communities across the United States, including your pediatric dentist in Spring, come together to celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month, an initiative that aims to promote good oral hygiene habits in children and raise awareness about the importance of dental health. As we dive into the festivities of National Children’s Dental Health Month 2024, the American Dental Association (ADA) presents an engaging and vital theme: “Healthy Habits for Healthy Smiles.”

Healthy Habits for Healthy Smiles

The theme for 2024 emphasizes the importance of starting and maintaining healthy habits for a healthy smile and overall well-being. Healthy oral habits include: 

• Brushing teeth two times a day with a fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing in between each and every tooth once a day
• Eating healthy foods and limiting sugary foods and drinks
• Seeing your pediatric dentist in Spring twice a year for checkups

The cornerstone of this year’s theme is the belief that instilling good oral hygiene habits in children can set the foundation for a lifetime of positive dental health outcomes. The ADA encourages parents, caregivers, and educators to play an active role in teaching children the importance of oral care, making it a fun and integral part of their daily routines.

How to Get Involved

The ADA provides a ton of ways you can get involved with Children’s Dental Health Month and help spread the mission of why pediatric dental care is so important. Even better yet, many of their resources are free! Download educational items and fun games including: 

• Posters
• Coloring Sheets
• Maze Ditto Sheets

History of Children’s Dental Health Month

National Children’s Dental Health Month has been a staple in the dental community for 83 years since it was first recognized in 1941. Originally starting as a one-day event, it has transformed into not only a month-long celebration but also a national one. 

National Children’s Dental Health Month 2024 brings a refreshing theme – “Healthy Habits for Healthy Smiles” – reminding us that establishing good dental habits early is not only crucial to a child’s oral health but their overall well-being and happiness.

When it comes to the oral health of kids, your pediatric dentist in Spring is here to help. Make sure to see us at least twice a year, help your child brush and floss every day, and maintain a well-balanced diet with limited sugary snacks.

About The Author

Dr. Leslie Blackburn

Dr. Leslie Blackburn always knew she wanted to work with children and decided to pursue a career in pediatric dentistry. She enrolled at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, where she received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery and Master of Science in Dental Education. She finished the last leg of her education at Yale University, where she obtained her certificate in Pediatric Dentistry.

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