Dental squadron gives kids lessons in oral health

  • Published
  • By Corey Dahl
  • 21st Space Wing Public Affairs
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. --  Thanks to the 21st Dental Squadron, parents here might have an easier time getting their kids to brush their teeth this month.

In honor of National Children's Dental Health Month, the dental squadron is visiting the Peterson's child development centers, the R.P. Lee Youth Center and local elementary schools this February to talk to children about oral hygiene. The Airmen talk to the kids about the importance of cleaning their teeth and hand out toothbrushes, floss and toothpaste afterward.

"We're just trying to foster good habits like brushing teeth, flossing, showing them the good and bad foods to eat," said Staff Sgt. Jason Atkins, a dental assistant with the squadron.

The dental squadron's presentations are tailored to kids - short, simple and with lots of visual aids. At a recent visit to the CDC Annex, the kids practiced brushing teeth the right way using a large plastic mouth and an oversized toothbrush.

"We try to do demos when we're talking," said Airman 1st Class Marifel Borbon, a dental assistant. "They have really short attention spans, so that helps keep it interesting."

Getting kids hooked on good dental health early on is essential, said Senior Airman Niko Sabalvaro, because those habits will carry over into adulthood.

"If they haven't started early, then it's really hard when they grow up," he said. "It's good to start that habit early."

 

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