February is National Children's Dental Health Month! This national observance began as a one-day event in Ohio in 1941, and the American Dental Association started promoting Children's Dental Health Day in 1949. Since then, the program has become a month-long celebration all over the country.
Healthy teeth and gums look great when you smile, and proper care of your teeth will help you keep a beautiful smile for a lifetime! Brushing and flossing every day prevents tooth decay and gum disease. These problems are caused by plaque, a sticky film that contains bacteria and forms on the teeth constantly. These bacteria make acid which attacks tooth enamel after every meal. Developing good dental hygiene habits now will help prevent tooth loss later in life.
- Teeth help you speak clearly. Many sounds can't be made without the shape of your teeth to help. Imagine trying to say "I think these teeth are terrific!" without any teeth.
- Adults have 32 teeth. There are: eight incisors in front of the mouth to cut food, four cuspids or canine teeth with pointed edges to tear food, four premolars or bicuspids to crush and tear food, and twelve molars at the back of the mouth to grind food.
- "Wisdom teeth" are molars at the very back that appear after age sixteen. Many people have these four molars removed so there is enough room for the rest of the teeth to grow straight.
- Fluoride is a chemical compound that helps prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is added to toothpaste and to tap water. People who drink fluoridated water have as much as 50% less tooth decay than people who don't drink fluoridated water.
- Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and a rounded end. Make sure it is not too big for your mouth.
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or especially after you have been sick. Your tooth brush can grow harmful bacteria on the bristles—run it through the dishwasher every so often.
- Get several rolls of dental floss—keep one next to your computer, one next to your TV chair, one next to your favorite reading chair or close to your regular homework area. Flossing is good—but don't snap the floss, pull it back and forth gently between your teeth.
- Eat healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and pasta. Sugars in candy and soft drinks are enemies to your teeth.
- Don't smoke! Besides staining your teeth an ugly yellow, smoking can help cause gum disease later in life.
- Check out these sites to learn more about tooth care for girls:
