February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, a good time to remember and talk to others about the importance of good oral health.
Today in Washington there is good news as fewer low-income preschoolers around the state suffer from tooth decay and the overall rate of untreated decay among children is falling, signs that access to care is improving.
But, despite these good numbers, the 2010 Smile Survey also found that nearly 40 percent of the state’s children begin kindergarten having experienced tooth decay, and nearly 14 percent of all kindergarten children have untreated tooth decay. Low-income and minority children suffer from the highest rates of tooth decay. National Children’s Dental Health Month reminds us that we need to close these gaps.
Local dental societies across the state, funded in part by grants provided by Arcora Foundation, organized a variety of activities in February to draw attention to the importance of children’s oral health. For example, Clark County dentists sponsored a Children’s Dental Health Day and provided dental services to 264 children from low-income families. In Pasco, volunteers provided free checkups to 150 children under age 14. The volunteers reminded the children and their parents about the importance of oral health and provided tips for taking care of teeth.
To learn about ways to take care of your child’s oral health, visit www.KidsOralHealth.org.
Oral Health Watch
1 hours ago
Good oral health care habits like brushing and flossing regularly and preventive public health measures like community water fluoridation are your best protection against cavities and tooth decay. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 hours ago
Good oral health care habits like brushing and flossing regularly and preventive public health measures like community water fluoridation are your best protection against cavities and tooth decay. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
4 hours ago
Good oral health care habits like brushing and flossing regularly and preventive public health measures like community water fluoridation are your best protection against cavities and tooth decay. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Every child deserves to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. Community water fluoridation, sealants, fluoride varnishes and access to routine preventive care can help keep kids cavity-free and set them on a lifelong path of good oral health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Every child deserves to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. Community water fluoridation, sealants, fluoride varnishes and access to routine preventive care can help keep kids cavity-free and set them on a lifelong path of good oral health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
👇💯Water fluoridation helps protect everyone's teeth against cavity-causing germs regardless of age and income level. #teethmatter