OrthoCare Orthodontics On National Children's Dental Health Month
(Charlotte, NC) - February is National Children's Dental Health Month. If you have children, it is important to establish good oral habits now to assure that their teeth will remain healthy for all of their lives.
Online, February 2, 2012 (Newswire.com) - National Children's Dental Health Month has been celebrated for the past 62 years to raise awareness about the importance of oral health in children and to help establish good habits at an early age.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay remains one of the most common diseases of childhood. It is five times more common than asthma. If left untreated, tooth decay in children can cause persistent pain, an inability to eat comfortably or chew well, and discolored or damaged teeth.
"Young children have specific oral care needs, especially those undergoing orthodontic treatment," says orthodontist, Dr. Ford Cooper. "Children's teeth are meant to last a lifetime, and a healthy smile is important to a child's self esteem. With proper care, a balanced diet and regular dental visits, their teeth can remain healthy and strong."
Parents should be aware of when children should have their first dental and orthodontic visit, ways to prevent early childhood caries, when to expect changes from primary to permanent teeth, proper brushing and flossing techniques, thumb sucking, dental sealants, choosing the right mouth protector for active children and adolescents, and teaching their children to say no to tobacco.
Children's Dental Health Quick Tips:
• Brush teeth twice a day.
• Floss teeth daily to remove food debris between teeth that brushing cannot reach.
• Eat healthy and nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables and limit the intake of sugary carbonated beverages.
• Visit a dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
• Ask your doctor about fluoride treatments and dental sealants for the prevention of tooth decay and cavities.
To learn more about adequate oral health care for children or to schedule a complimentary consultation, call OrthoCare Orthodontics at (704) 509-4999 or visit us online at www.DrCooperOrtho.com.
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