Celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month With Your Pediatric Dentist in Long Island

The month of February is a time to celebrate the loved ones we have in our lives. It also happens to be the month of your pediatric dentist’s favorite holiday — National Children’s Dental Health Month! Every year, the American Dental Association hosts this 28-day (sometimes 29!) celebration for all things related to children’s oral healthcare. So as we start this joyous occasion, join your pediatric dentist in Long Island for some fun ways to celebrate. 

2021’s Theme: “Water, Nature’s Drink!”

The ADA sets a different theme for National Children’s Dental Health Month every year. This year, the theme is “Water, Nature’s Drink!” and focuses on just how important it is that kids (and adults) drink plenty of water throughout the day, every day. Water is vital to helping our bodies function properly and plays a key role in maintaining good oral health. Water helps neutralize dangerous acids in the mouth, wash away food debris, and keeps mouths moist. 

Get Involved

There are a number of ways parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals can get involved with Children’s Dental Health Month and help spread the mission of why pediatric dental care is so important Thankfully, the ADA makes it easy for anyone to help. Plus, they make it fun for kids! 

This website provides free tools and fun activities to use all month long. Download educational items and games including: 

• Posters
• Crossword Puzzles
• Coloring Sheets
• Maze Ditto Sheets

Do Your Part

National Children’s Dental Health Month has been an ongoing celebration in the dental community for over 80 years and is one of the instrumental reasons why communities have put increased importance on pediatric dentistry. Even though temporary, baby teeth are a crucial part of helping children develop proper speech, eat and chew, and can even help protect their permanent adult teeth. Besides drinking water every day and choosing water whenever possible, there are other ways to help your child grow a healthy, strong grin. 

• Practice Good Brushing Habits. As soon as your child gets his first tooth you should start brushing. This helps develop the habit early. Make sure to supervise your child during brushing until they’re old enough to do so on their own. 

• Don’t Forget The Floss. Flossing is just as important as brushing but is often overlooked, especially in kids. When teeth begin to touch, start to floss. 

• Choose Healthy Snacks. Nutrition isn’t only important for our bodies but eating a well-balanced diet of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and dairy is also important for oral health. Avoid sugary snacks and pick nuts, cheese, or yogurts instead. 

• See Your Pediatric Dentist in Long Island. Bi-annual visits to your pediatric dentist in Long Island are one of the most important parts of maintaining your child’s oral health. These visits help prevent problems and can identify any concerns early before they have a chance to become bigger and harder to treat. 

This February, and all year round, make sure you’re helping your little one take care of his smile. Early dental care can help your child grow and keep a healthy smile for life. 

About The Author

Dr. Glen Ehrenman

In April this year, Dr. Glen Ehrenman received a Lifetime Diplomate status and an award from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD), where he has been a diplomate since 1995. Since 2010, he has been a clinical assistant professor and mentor at the State University of New York Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine. He has memberships with dental organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, New York State Dental Association, and the Nassau County Dental Society. His commitment to excellence earned him the Top DDS of 2012 award from Long Island Pulse Magazine.

Read The Full Bio