By Ginger Christian
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and this year’s theme from the American Dental Association is “Healthy Habits for Healthy Smiles!” This annual observance reminds families of the importance of good oral health, specifically for children. Establishing healthy attitudes toward dental care and routines is as important as any other life skill, as much as cooking and counting. So how do we put children on the path to healthy smiles?
A healthy smile starts with the basics: brushing teeth for two minutes, twice daily, and flossing daily. This applies to anyone with a grin, but say your child is not a fan of the activity. Make teeth time more fun with colorful timers, sticker charts that reward consistency or songs that are at least two minutes long to brush along with. Make it a family affair by brushing teeth together, or even letting your child brush your teeth first! Just be sure to brush thoroughly after.
National Children’s Dental Health Month also serves as a reminder to schedule your child’s cleanings. Most dental plans provide two annual cleanings. While tooth decay is avoidable, it is the most common childhood disease. So even if your child is the best at brushing for the full two minutes, twice a day, and flossing daily, a visit to the dentist is still necessary. Sometimes there are problems only a dentist or hygienist can diagnose. Dr. Cameron Larson, owner and managing partner of South Mississippi Smiles, says, “We encourage parents to bring their children in as early as 6 months, even if a child hasn’t gotten their first teeth. It’s important for parents to start that routine visit and for us to provide education, especially to first time parents.”
“But my child hates going to the dentist!”
South Mississippi Smiles is a kids-only dental office that provides a fun, family-friendly environment to help alleviate those fears. Their offices in Gulfport and Pascagoula have televisions playing movies in every patient area. Parents are always welcome in treatment rooms, and most insurance plans are accepted. If your child has severe dentist anxiety, you can schedule a “Happy Visit” prior to your child’s actual appointment to familiarize him or her with the clinic and staff. The Pascagoula location has a Sensory Sensitive room, and both offices offer conscious sedation. Conscious sedation is offered at no charge to military families on the Gulf Coast.
South Mississippi Smiles cares about good dental health care beyond their offices, with visits to elementary schools, head starts and health fairs throughout the year. They provide demonstrations to children on how to brush and floss, with puppet shows and story times to promote healthy habits early. To schedule a visit from South Mississippi Smiles for a fun dental presentation for kids, email GingerChristian@KidsDentalBrands.com.
To make an appointment for your child or to learn more about their offices, visit SMSmiles.com!