February is National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) sponsored by the American Dental Association. NCDHM is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of oral health.

Developing habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental check-ups ensures children get a great start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

“As a parent, our role is to teach children to make good decisions and be involved in their overall care, including taking care of their teeth,” said Dr. Sindy Goodman, National Orthodontic Director for Great Expressions Dental Centers. “Healthy kids grow into healthy adults and good habits can be formed early in life. Educating children on the importance of proper oral hygiene at a young age will help develop good habits, leading to good oral health and preventing potentially painful and expensive problems down the road.”

Dental Cavities are the most prevalent chronic disease in both children and adults, even though it is preventable. Sixty percent of adolescents have had cavities in their permanent teeth with 20% having untreated tooth decay which causes cavities.

Vitamin D and Dental Health

Did you know sufficient vitamin D levels can help prevent cavities and gum disease? Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased cavities. Also, people who take vitamin D3 or get sun exposure are less likely to develop cavities.

Here are some important tips to ensure your children maintain great dental health:

• Make it fun- Incorporate teeth brushing with a game to help kids learn the importance of good oral care in an enjoyable way while also keeping them interested.
• Lead by example- Be sure your kids see you brushing and flossing as part of your daily routine.
• Regular dental visits- Having regular checkups can ensure you’re identifying potential dental health problems. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends visiting the dentist regularly starting before your child’s first birthday.
• Vitamin D- Make sure you and your family have sufficient vitamin D levels to improve overall oral health.

Take a look at our Dental Health Infographic for a quick overview of vitamin D and dental health. Be sure to share with friends and family to promote overall oral health! To download and share visit our Facebook page.