21st Dental Squadron promotes Children’s Dental Health Month Published Feb. 17, 2010 By Patricia Moreaux 21st Dental Squadron PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- February is National Children's Dental Health Month and the 21st Dental Squadron is doing its part to promote healthy smiles. Throughout the month, members of the 21st DS will visit local schools and child development centers to educate the communities' children on proper oral habits. "Children are more likely to maintain healthy habits throughout their life, if they start early," said Maj. Kyle Pelkey, 21st DS dentist. While oral health in children has improved significantly over the years, tooth decay remains one of the most common childhood diseases. Luckily, dental decay is preventable. One of the most important roles of dental professionals is to prevent decay through education and encouragement of good oral hygiene practices. The American Dental Association sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month so that dental professionals can reach out to the children of the community and promote healthy oral habits in a fun and low stress environment. Members of the 21st DS will visit CDCs, Peterson's youth center, Krista McAuliffe Elementary, Vera Scott Elementary, and Academy Endeavor Elementary. A few tips that parents can use to help their children maintain a healthy smile are: · Gently clean your baby's gums with a damp washcloth or gauze pad · Never allow an infant to nurse continuously from a bottle of milk, formula or juice · Help your child brush and floss until they are old enough to do an effective job. The ADA recommends that children less than 7 years-old receive help from an adult · Schedule regular dental checkups, beginning no later than 6 months after the first baby tooth appears. · Ask your dentist about placing sealants on your child's permanent molars · Restrict the amount of candy, soda, and other sugars your child consumes · If your child plays sports, make sure he or she always wears a mouth guard