21st DS shapes hygiene for youth Published Feb. 5, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Ladonna Wiseman 21st Dental Squadron PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Mouth hygiene -- brushing, flossing and eating properly is stressed by Peterson AFB's child development centers during National Children's Dental Health Month. The 21st Dental Squadron is visiting the Colorado Springs elementary schools: Christa McAuliffe, Academy Endeavor, Hilltop Baptist and Vera Scott, Feb. 10-12. During the visits, members of the 21st DS will demonstrate to children the proper ways to brush and floss while providing the tools to clean their teeth such as a toothbrushes, floss and toothpaste. Tooth decay is one of the most common and preventable childhood diseases. Some things that can help prevent tooth decay include bottles of water at bedtime instead of juice, along with helping a child brush and flossing for a child until they can effectively do so. If a child dislikes brushing, make a game out of it. The child may brush their teeth, then the adult brushes their teeth: laugh, play, and make the game fun. The dental squadron cannot always be there, so it's a good thing parents are, as the best role models for children are their parents. Start a great habit early - encourage brushing and flossing.