By Ginger Christian
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, an annual observance that brings dental health professionals together nationwide, to promote the importance of children’s dental health and care. This event 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 every day. But if your child is not a fan of teeth time, make it 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 regularly replace toothbrushes (every three to four months!), and to schedule your child’s biannual cleaning.
While tooth decay is avoidable, it is the most common childhood disease. Tooth decay can lead to problems with learning, speaking, sleeping, confidence, and increases in other health problems, so even if your child is the best at brushing, 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 six 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.” Most dental plans provide two annual cleanings.
“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 are recently remodeled, have televisions playing movies in every patient area, and parents are always welcome in treatment rooms. If your child has severe dentist anxiety, you can schedule a “Happy Visit” prior to your child’s actual appointment to familiarize themselves with the clinic and staff.
South Mississippi Smiles accepts United Concordia/Tri Care, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Mississippi Medicaid, and most other insurances. South Mississippi Smiles is a sensory-friendly practice, and conscious sedation is offered at no charge to military families on the gulf coast.
To make an appointment for your child or to learn more about their offices, visit SMSmiles.com!