February is National Children's Dental Health Month

Director of Health Services Pickens Schools

February is National Children's Dental Health Month, so now is a great time to schedule an oral examine to ensure a healthy smile and a confident child. See page 1 article on a free dental service day at the Good Samaritan Clinic in Jasper.

Throughout the United States, tooth decay (cavities) is considered one of the most common chronic conditions of childhood. In fact, as soon teeth appear in the mouth, decay can occur.

Consider the following statistics reported by the Centers for Disease Control:

?About 44% of US children will have at least one untreated decayed tooth by the time they start kindergarten

?About 1 of 5 (20%) children aged 5 to 11 years have at least one untreated decayed tooth

?1 of 7 (13%) adolescents aged 12 to 19 years have at least one untreated decayed tooth.

Left untreated, cavities can cause pain and infection. This may lead to problems with eating, speaking, and even playing. Children with toothaches also may have difficulty listening, paying attention, irritability and even depression, which can make ordinary school day activities extremely challenging for a student of any age.

Oral health is also related to overall well-being. Gum disease and extensive tooth loss are frequently linked with other health complications such as heart issues and diabetes. Even, higher self-esteem has been reported with improved oral hygiene which includes clean, well-cared-for teeth. The health of teeth can influence how a student looks, speaks, eats, chews, tastes, socializes, and enjoys life.

Children's teeth are meant to last a lifetime. Fortunately, tooth decay is preventable. With proper care, a balanced diet and regular dental visits, their teeth can remain healthy and strong.

What Parents and Caregivers Can Do

Here are some recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control, Division of Oral Health of things you can do to ensure good oral health for your child:

?Protect your child's teeth with fluoride.

?Use fluoride toothpaste.

?If your child is younger than age 6, watch your child brush their teeth. Make sure your child only uses a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and always spits it out rather than swallows it.

?If your child is younger than age 2, do not use fluoride toothpaste unless your doctor or dentist tells you to.

?Learn more about fluoride toothpaste and fluorides at Brush Up on Healthy Teeth.

?Talk to your pediatrician, family doctor, nurse, or dentist about putting fluoride varnish on your child's teeth as soon as the first tooth appears in the mouth.

?If your drinking water is not fluoridated, ask your dentist, family doctor, or pediatrician if your child needs oral fluoride supplements, like drops, tablets, or lozenges.

?Talk to your child's dentist about dental sealants. Sealants protect teeth from decay.

?Have your child visit a dentist for a first checkup by age 1, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.