Focus on Pediatric Dental Care
February is all about helping children build healthy smiles that last a lifetime. National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) is dedicated to teaching children and reminding parents just how important daily dental care really is. The American Dental Association (ADA) first introduced this national observance back in 1949. This one-day event became a week in 1955 and, as of 1981, was extended to an entire month. All these years later, dental professionals across the country still continue to use February as an opportunity to reinforce the same message: good oral health starts early and continues for life.
During the month of February, families are encouraged to focus on starting or continuing simple habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, visiting the dentist regularly, and choosing foods that support both dental and overall health. These small routines seem basic, but they play a major role in a child’s long-term dental and physical well-being. Starting young with good dental habits prevents long-term dental health problems and provides economic advantages to all families.
Why Early Dental Habits Matter
Many assume that baby teeth aren’t as important since they eventually fall out. That is not the truth! Not only are baby teeth placeholders for adult teeth, but during the early years, lifelong dental habits can be formed.
Children who learn proper brushing, flossing, and the value of routine dental visits are far more likely to carry those good habits into adulthood. The benefit is that strong habits from a young age lead to fewer cavities, healthier gums, and less dental treatment later in life. At Lakeside Dental, we see this truth firsthand.
Children who grow up with consistent dental routines typically experience smoother transitions into their teenage years and adulthood. On the other hand, children who aren’t helped to establish those habits early often face avoidable dental issues unless they make positive changes down the road. Simply put, early prevention makes a lasting difference. It’s never too early to teach or learn good dental habits!
Making Dental Health Fun and Educational
National Children’s Dental Health Month is a great opportunity for parents to make oral care fun and engaging for kids. To help with this, the ADA offers free, family-friendly resources such as posters, fliers, coloring pages, and a calendar that parents can download from their website and use at home to help reinforce healthy dental habits for young members of the family. Just a little effort now can save time in a dental chair later!
Supporting Healthy Smiles All Year Long
Focusing on children’s oral health for a month is great, but the goal at Lakeside Dental is to support healthy smiles every month of the year. We know that regular dental cleanings and exams allow our dental team to monitor oral health, find and treat possible issues early, and help children feel comfortable and confident at the dentist. If your child is due for a dental visit or if you’d like help creating good dental habits, our friendly team is here to help! Contact Lakeside Dental to schedule an appointment and take the next step toward a lifetime of healthy smiles.
