Celebrating National Children's Dental Health Month: A call to action for healthy smiles
A kindergarten student at an LAUSD dental screening.
February is National Children's Dental Health Month, a time to emphasize the significance of oral health in children's overall wellbeing. Sadly, many underserved communities face numerous barriers that make dental care for children challenging, including lack of oral health education and financial limitations. During this month and all year round, it's crucial to focus on expanding access to dental care for all children, especially those from underserved communities.
Educating Children on Oral Hygiene
The initial step in celebrating National Children's Dental Health Month is to educate children on the importance of maintaining oral health. Parents can lead by example by teaching their children to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. They should also explain why oral hygiene is vital and how poor habits can lead to serious health problems such as cavities and gum disease.
Schools Can Make a Difference
Schools play an integral role in this cause by providing basic oral health education and screenings, just like LA Unified is doing in its elementary schools. This kind of programming ensures that each student receives dental care during the academic year and helps connect families with dentists who accept Medicaid or other forms of insurance. Schools can also provide resources such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss, so students can take responsibility for their oral health at home.
Maryjane Puffer, Executive Director of The L.A. Trust speaking at the Oral Health Advisory Board meeting this month.
The L.A. Trust Oral Health Initiative
The L.A. Trust's Oral Health Initiative has been a driving force in oral health since 2012. The initiative has formed partnerships with providers and partners to bring free oral health education, screenings, and referrals to children without dental care. The L.A. Trust works annually with Los Angeles Unified and providers to screen and educate over 1,700 kindergartners and third graders. The initiative also supports the broader community by bringing together public health officials and private dental providers through its Oral Health Advisory Board meetings.
“Good oral health is essential for a healthy life, and it's our responsibility to ensure that all children, especially those in underserved communities, have access to the dental care and education they need for a healthy smile,” says Maryjane Puffer, Executive Director of The L.A. Trust. “Let us celebrate National Children's Dental Health Month by committing to oral health as a priority for all children.”
In conclusion, National Children's Dental Health Month is a call to action to prioritize the dental health of our children. By educating children on oral hygiene and increasing awareness among school administrators and healthcare providers, we can help ensure that all children have access to the dental care they need and deserve. Let us work towards a future where every child has a healthy smile, regardless of their background or financial status. National Children's Dental Health Month is an opportunity to celebrate and advocate for our children's dental health today and every day.