According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases in the
US. Untreated cavities can cause pain and infection that may lead to
problems eating, speaking, playing, and learning. Children with poor oral health
commonly miss more school and make lower grades than children who don’t.
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month.
Jefferson County Department of Health’s Dental Health
clinics would like to remind parents that cavity prevention includes brushing
twice a day, flossing daily, eating a healthy diet that limits sugary beverages
and snacks, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups for prevention and
treatment of oral disease. Dental sealants, the theme of this year’s
Children’s Dental Health Month, are another way to combat cavities, as they
form a protective barrier on the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent up
to 80% of cavities.
If your child is not already under the regular care of a
dentist, take time this month to schedule a dental checkup.