Photo By Staff Sgt. Shanice Ship | Airman Mariah M. Perez, a dental technician assigned to the 48th Dental Squadron,...... read more read more
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Throughout the month of February dental providers from to the 48th Dental Squadron visited local Department of Defense schools and child care centers to promote oral health in observance of the 2018 National Children's Dental Health Month here.
The month-long campaign is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting the benefits of good oral hygiene to children.
This year’s slogan is “Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth for a healthy smile.”
The campaign message was taught through fun activities and interactive presentations, and was geared toward pre-school and school-aged children.
“The goal is prevention,” said Capt. Candice V. Hodges, a general dentist assigned to the 48th DS. “We do that by teaching good habits early and young.”
According to Hodges, dental health problems cause kids to miss two million days of school every year.
“With families getting busier, sometimes it falls on the school to help with crucial things like oral health,” said Marysol F. Preciado-Bell, a 1st grade teacher at Lakenheath Elementary School. “We know the kids will remember these presentations and they get so excited about practicing what they learned.”
However, even though most dental health issues are easily preventable through good practices, getting younger children to brush their teeth may be easier said than done, said Hodges. She encourages parents to be creative to make sure children are brushing at home by singing songs, playing games or even giving rewards.
Additionally, a benefit of early introduction to oral health can drastically minimize the discomfort some children may feel when it is time to see the dentist.
“We have two amazing pediatric dentists here at the dental clinic,” said Hodges. “Bring your kids early so we can take care of them.”
| Date Taken: | 02.23.2018 |
| Date Posted: | 06.21.2018 08:34 |
| Story ID: | 281749 |
| Location: | BRANDON, SFK, GB |
| Web Views: | 14 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Put a smile on your face, by SSgt Shanice Ship, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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