'Join the Super Smile Team'

Photo By Staff Sgt. Chris Massey | U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt.s Kristy Stowell and Kyle Wireman, 355th Dental Squadron dental technicians, simulate the proper way to floss teeth by using garland as floss and children as teeth during a presentation at the D-M Child Development Center at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Feb. 3, 2014. To observe National Children's Dental Health Month, the dental professionals gave short presentations to the children on brushing and flossing techniques, talked about healthy eating to prevent cavities and gum disease, and stressed the importance of visiting the dentist on a regular basis. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Chris Massey)  

DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, AZ, UNITED STATES

02.03.2014

Story by Airman 1st Class Chris Massey 

355th Wing

DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. - The month of February is National Children's Dental Health Month. This year's slogan is "Join the Super Smile Team!"

Every year thousands of dedicated dental professionals promote good oral health and healthy eating habits to our children. The 355th Dental Squadron is no exception.

Each year, we reach out to our community to educate children on proper dental hygiene by visiting the D-M Child Development Center, the Finley Child Development Center, Borman Elementary and the Youth Center.

Dentists, dental hygienists and technicians give short presentations on brushing and flossing techniques. They also talk about healthy eating to prevent cavities and gum disease and stress the importance of visiting the dentist on a regular basis. Posters, games, songs and dressing up in masks, gowns and gloves show the children that, while oral health is important, it can also be fun.

Toothbrush kits and coloring pages with fun dental-related activities are handed out to encourage the practice of good oral hygiene.

Below are some helpful tips for parents to reduce their child's risk of tooth decay and promote healthy habits:

1. Limiting the amount of sugary drinks and snacks that consume; fruits, veggies, low-fat milk and water are better options.

2. Help children develop good brushing and flossing habits; twice a day for brushing and once a day for flossing.

3. Schedule regular dental visits.

With the help of parents at home, developing good oral habits and visiting the dentist at an early age can help ensure children get a jump start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

• Date Taken: 02.03.2014
• Date Posted: 02.14.2014 14:31
• Story ID: 120661
• Location: DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, AZ, US