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36th MDOS celebrates National Children's Dental Health Month

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Harris
  • 36th Medical Operations Squadron dental flight
Did you know tooth decay is a leading childhood disease and is a principal reason why children miss school? Tooth decay in children can cause several symptoms including fever, flu-like symptoms, poor concentration, pain, malnutrition, decreased social skills and low self esteem.

The American Dental Association's National Children's Dental Health Month was created more than 58 years ago and is celebrated every February to raise awareness about children's oral health. The ADA provides information, games and activities that caregivers, healthcare professionals and educators can use to educate children and their families about the value of good oral health.

This year, the 36th Medical Operations Squadron dental team will be visiting Andersen Elementary School with an educational and fun-filled presentation promoting good oral health. They will discuss, demonstrate and allow the children to interact in activities that show them the proper way to brush and floss their own teeth.

Parents of young children should assist or observe their children brushing their teeth and use fun dental aids, such as timers and plaque-disclosing tablets, to help children brush their teeth correctly and confidently. Disclosing solutions or tablets are available over the counter and stain plaque red so it can be seen. Timers signal when the appropriate amount of time has lapsed when brushing.

Try to instill the "2, 2, 2" rule with your children: brush at least two times a day, for two minutes at a time, and visit your dentist two times a year for routine check-ups. Active-duty members are encouraged to enroll family members and children into the MetLife dental insurance plan. To sign up or obtain more information, visit www.TRICAREdentalprogram.com.