Bright smiles for bright futures Celebrating National Children’s Dental Health Month

Graphic by 777 Bond vector, Bika Ambon/Shutterstock.com

Hello young explorers, February is a special month because it’s National Children’s Dental Health Month. This is when we highlight and learn how to keep our teeth healthy and shiny. Our teeth help us eat, speak, and smile. Let’s find out how we can take care of them.

Tip 1: Brushing – Your Daily Adventure

Choose the right toothbrush: Find a small, soft-bristled toothbrush that fits comfortably in your mouth. Some toothbrushes have fun characters on them — pick your favorite!

Use fluoride toothpaste: Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste or a size of rice grain for 3-year-old or younger. Remember: It’s not candy, so don’t swallow it!

Brush for two minutes: Spend two minutes brushing your teeth, twice a day. You can time this by singing your favorite song or setting a timer.

Don’t forget the corners: Brush all surfaces of your teeth — the outside, inside, and the chewing surfaces. Gently brush your gums too.

Rinse and spit: After brushing, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out.

Tip 2: Flossing – The Hidden Treasure Hunt

Floss daily: Flossing removes food and plaque from between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach.

Gentle glide: Use about 18 inches of floss, wrapping most of it around your middle fingers. Hold the floss tightly and gently glide it up and down between your teeth.

Curve and clean: Curve the floss around each tooth and slide it beneath the gum line. Be gentle and make sure you floss behind your last teeth too.

Tip 3: Healthy eating for healthy teeth

Crunchy fruits and vegetables: Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots can help clean your teeth.

Limit sugary snacks: Too much sugar can cause cavities. Try to have healthy snacks like yogurt or cheese instead.

Tip 4: Regular dental visits

See your dentist: Visit your dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning. Your dentist is a tooth expert who can help keep your teeth strong and healthy.

Taking care of your teeth is an important part of staying healthy. By brushing, flossing, eating right, and visiting your dentist, you’re on your way to a bright and healthy smile. Happy brushing and happy National Children’s Dental Health Month.