News Release
For Immediate Release: February 2, 2010
Contact Person: Cynthia Heselbach, RDH, 301-334-7660
February is Children's Dental Health Month
Oakland, MD (February 1, 2010) – Did you know that tooth decay (cavities) is the most common chronic disease found in children? It is five times more common than asthma and seven times more common than hay fever.
Each year, more than 51 million school hours are lost due to dental problems. Untreated, tooth decay causes pain and infections that may lead to problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning. Fortunately, with good oral health care habits, tooth decay can be prevented.
“It is important for parents to teach their children good dental care habits, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, eating nutritious foods, and having regular visits to the dentist,” said Dr. Jason Hieronimus. Steps such as these will help ensure that children will have a healthy mouth, as well as a healthy body. Since children learn oral heath care from their parents, it is important that parents serve as role models and practice good oral health care habits. Parents should supervise brushing until children are seven to eight years old.
Elementary school age children can discover the power of a healthy smile online at www.MouthPower.org . This is an entertaining and innovative website sponsored by the National Museum of Dentistry and the American Dental Association. Children can explore Mouthie's interactive online laboratory to learn how to keep their smiles sparkling. They can learn how to brush and floss, make healthy food choices, and steer clear of the pitfalls of tobacco. After completing the program that entails “earning” teeth, children can download a personalized certificate. The program is available in English and Spanish.
Children can test their dental knowledge by playing “Dental Jeopardy” located on the Maryland Office of Oral Health website at http://fha.maryland.gov/oralhealth/ .
For more information about oral heath programs and services available in Maryland and in your local area, visit the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's, Office of Oral Heath website at http://fha.maryland.gov or call the Garrett County Health Department's Dental Care Center at 301-334-7660.