Young Gums: Children’s Dental Health Month Published Feb. 1, 2017 By 48th Dental Squadron ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- February is designated as National Children’s Dental Health Month. Each year at this time, the dental health community stresses the importance of healthy oral care habits for the little ones in our lives. The 48th Dental Squadron at RAF Lakenheath is proud to participate in this program and is always here to help you and your family maintain happy, healthy smiles. Why do we observe National Children’s Dental Health Month? Is it really necessary? It is necessary because, unfortunately, tooth decay continues to be one of the most common diseases affecting children of all ages. Wow! Is tooth decay really a disease? Technically, yes it is! Tooth decay isn’t something that just happens naturally to our teeth. Instead, it occurs when the teeth are actually broken down and eaten away by little microscopic critters called bacteria. That does not sound fun at all! Can we keep it from happening? This is where the good news comes in. Yes! Even though it’s one of the most common diseases among children, it’s also one of the most preventable diseases. With just a little bit of education, planning and practice, you can keep your child’s teeth strong, healthy and free of bacteria-induced decay. In order to succeed in the battle against your child’s beautiful smile, the bacteria need two things: a place to hide and food (sugar is their favorite). The best ways to protect your child’s teeth are: - Limit the bacteria’s hiding places by consistently brushing and flossing them away. - Limit the bacteria’s food source by encouraging and enabling a healthy diet for your child that is low in processed, sugar-heavy foods and snacks. It’s especially important to insure your child isn’t “grazing” on sugary foods or drinks, which means constantly consuming them throughout the day and night. Finally, in order to be certain that you are doing all you can to protect your little one’s teeth, it’s essential you take them to see your friendly neighborhood dental team. Regular dental visits are key to long-term oral health. We’re often asked how early a child should come to see the dentist. As a simple rule, if there’s a tooth, we’re happy to have a look at it! We certainly prefer to see your child by the time they celebrate their first birthday. Regular, early dental visits help your child feel comfortable in the dental chair as they grow up, and they afford you the opportunity to ask any dental-related questions you may have. During this month, members of the 48th DS will be visiting your school-age children in their classrooms at base schools to discuss the importance of healthy oral care habits, and to demonstrate proper oral hygiene techniques. We ask you as parents to discuss with them the things they learn during these presentations. Your active participation in their oral health care is truly the key to success. If you have any questions, contact our squadron at 226-8010 (DSN) or 01638-528-010 (commercial).