Event Series:
National Children’s Dental Health Month
National Children’s Dental Health Month
February 1, 2027
National Children’s Dental Health Month
Observed in February, National Children’s Dental Health Month is sponsored by the American Dental Association. National Children’s Dental Health Month is a time to increase awareness of oral health, promote good oral health habits, and spur advocacy for those suffering from oral health-related problems.
National Children’s Dental Health Month highlights that, despite the fact that it’s almost entirely preventable, tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children. There are, however, safe and effective preventive measures that can protect teeth. Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, can help keep children from getting cavities. In addition, dental sealants and community water fluoridation are two other strategies that can aid in tooth decay prevention.
Wear a blue awareness pin, ribbon, or silicone wristband to raise awareness of National Children’s Dental Health Month.
February Focus: Prevention!
The most common condition among children is largely preventable. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), dental cavities are four times more common than childhood asthma and three times more likely than childhood obesity. Spread the word about how poor oral health impacts our kids’ health and quality of life.
In their 2021 State of Little Teeth Report, AAPD examined the epidemic of tooth decay among children.
Key statistics from the report include:
- Tooth decay is the NUMBER ONE chronic infectious disease affecting children in the United States and is on the rise, but it is largely preventable.
- The rate of tooth decay in baby teeth of children aged 2 to 5 years increased nearly 17% from 1988-1994 to 1999-2004.
- By age 5, about 60% of children have tooth decay.
- Children with oral health problems are THREE TIMES more likely to miss school due to dental pain than children with no oral health problems.
- AAPD recommends taking a child for their first dental visit by the age of 1.
- Delaying dental care to age 2 or 3 can have a negative impact on a child’s oral health. 40% of parents and caregivers surveyed are delaying their child’s first visit until after age 2.
Raise Awareness During National Children’s Dental Health Month
During National Children’s Dental Health Month, the American Dental Association offers many resources to increase awareness of children’s dental health. In order to raise awareness, look to these resources to learn about updated information that affects children’s dental health.
Common Oral Health Issues in Children
Cavities are the most common oral health issue affecting children. A variety of factors cause cavities. Poor diet, lack of oral hygiene, and certain medications can contribute to the development of cavities. Untreated cavities can lead to infection, pain, and difficulty eating. Plaque causes tooth decay. It is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Brushing and flossing daily removes plaque. If left untreated, it can cause cavities and even gum disease.
Another common oral health issue affecting children is gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis is usually caused by plaque buildup. It can be prevented by brushing and flossing regularly. If not treated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease.
Make sure to address proper oral hygiene habits with pediatric patients from the beginning to help avoid potential oral health issues.
(Image: Photo by Diana Polekhina on Unsplash)
