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National Children's Dental Health Month Feb 2012

  • Published
  • Courtesy of the 36th Medical Group dental clinic
This February marks the 61st annual National Children's Dental Health Month and Team Andersen dental officials want children and parents to understand the importance of taking care of your teeth.

Attitudes and habits established at an early age are critical in maintaining good oral health throughout your life.

Remember to brush at least twice a day for two minutes and floss thoroughly once per day. By participating in the annual celebration of National Children's Dental Health Month, members of the dental team, parents, teachers and others can help keep children's smiles beautiful now and for years to come.

It is important to note that children under five years of age require supervision when brushing and flossing. Flossing can be started as your children's teeth erupt next to each other. Remember that children five to eight years of age require parents to inspect the quality of their oral hygiene to maintain the high standards that you set. Starting your children's oral hygiene habits early and making it fun will help ensure a valuable lifelong habit.

The theme for this year's campaign is "Rock Your Smile," and the American Dental Association produces a program planning kit for its state and local dental societies, dental alliances and armed forces dental clinics to assist them in local health campaign efforts.

The ADA distributes public service announcements for television and radio to educate the public and enhance promotional efforts. Additional information appears on the ADA's Web site, www.ada.org.