February is Dental Health Month

As part of the CESU Health Curriculum your child is learning to take responsibility for practicing healthy dental care. Kindergartners and First Graders have learned about good dental health habits - proper tooth brushing and dental care. 

You can help your child develop healthy dental habits by encouraging him/her to:

• Brush teeth for at least two minutes at least twice a day. (After breakfast and before  bed).
• Choose a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles. Change the toothbrush every 3-4 months, when bristles are worn and frayed, or after an illness.
• Floss teeth once a day. It is recommended that for children under 8 years old that a parent help the child floss.
• Choose tooth-healthy/nutritious foods and snacks.
• Visit the dentist twice a year.
• Use fluoride toothpaste. A pea size amount of toothpaste is enough to help fight cavities; make sure to spit it out afterwards.

When selecting snacks for your child, choose snacks that are not sticky and are low in sugar.  Here are some examples:

raw fruits and vegetables unsweetened cereal pretzels low-fat dairy products

The following is a list of items that are sticky and/or high in sugar and should be eaten less often or not at all.

caramels sugared soda and (fruit) juices cakes, cupcakes jelly beans, taffy fruit roll-ups and leather hard candies ice cream candy bars

You can encourage your child to brush after eating something sticky or high in sugar, in addition to brushing at the times listed above.

Another way for your child to have a healthy mouth is through the use of sealants.  A sealant is a plastic material that can be applied to your child’s teeth by a dentist.  Sealants act as barriers to plaque and acids.  You might want to discuss sealants with your child’s dentist.