National Children’s Dental Health Month

Promoting Healthy Smiles

February is more than just the month of love; it’s also a time to celebrate and raise awareness about something equally important—our children’s dental health. National Children’s Dental Health Month, established in 1981 by the American Dental Association (ADA), shines a spotlight on the importance of good oral hygiene in children and the efforts made to ensure their smiles stay bright and healthy.

The Foundation of Healthy Smiles

Oral health is a crucial component of overall well-being, especially for children. Developing good dental habits early in life can set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. National Children’s Dental Health Month serves as a reminder to parents, caregivers, and educators to prioritize oral health for the little ones in their care.

Key Objectives of National Children’s Dental Health Month

  1. Education: One of the primary goals of this month-long observance is to educate parents, caregivers, and children about the importance of oral hygiene. From the correct way to brush and floss to the role of a balanced diet in dental health, educational campaigns aim to equip families with the knowledge they need.
  2. Prevention: Preventive measures are at the core of dental health, and this month emphasizes the significance of regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Early detection and intervention can prevent dental issues from becoming more serious problems.
  3. Access to Care: National Children’s Dental Health Month also highlights the importance of ensuring that all children have access to dental care. It underscores the need for affordable and accessible dental services, especially for those in underserved communities.
  4. Community Engagement: Dental professionals, schools, and local organizations often come together during this month to host events and activities that promote oral health. These events can include free dental check-ups, dental hygiene workshops, and educational programs.
  5. Promoting Fun: Dental health doesn’t have to be a chore. National Children’s Dental Health Month often incorporates fun and engaging activities for kids, making learning about oral hygiene an enjoyable experience.

Your Role in Promoting Healthy Smiles

As a part of the dental community, you can play a vital role in promoting the importance of National Children’s Dental Health Month. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

  • Spread the Word: Share information about the month on your website, social media, and in your dental practice to raise awareness.
  • Offer Special Promotions: Consider offering special discounts or incentives for families who schedule dental appointments during February.
  • Educational Resources: Create and share educational resources on your website, such as articles, videos, or infographics, to help parents and children learn more about oral hygiene.
  • Community Outreach: Collaborate with local schools or organizations to organize dental health workshops or screenings for children in your community.

PDA Poster Contest

The Pennsylvania Dental Association poster contest provides a fun way to convey the message of how important dental health is to overall health. Download the official rules here.

Download a lesson plan here.

Prizes

First Place

    • $500
    • Custom-framed poster
    • Prizes presented by a PDA representative at a school assembly
    • The first-place winner’s school and teacher each receive $250

Second Place

    • $250

Third Place

    • $100

Remember, every effort made to promote good oral health during National Children’s Dental Health Month can make a lasting impact on a child’s life.