THE MISSION OF CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH
Each February, the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM). The purpose of this month-long observance is to bring together healthcare providers, educators, and other professionals to help teach children, their parents, and caregivers the importance of good oral health.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, cavities or tooth decay are one of the most common chronic childhood diseases, yet completely preventable.[i] In fact, children with poor oral health are absent from school more often and get lower grades than children who have good oral health.[ii] That’s why it is essential to help children develop good oral health habits at an early age.
HEALTHY HABITS FOR HEALTHY SMILES
Each year, the ADA designates a theme for National Children’s Dental Health Month. The theme for 2024 is “Healthy Habits for Healthy Smiles” and the goal is to express to children the benefits of:[iii]
- Brushing regularly with a fluoride toothpaste;
- Cleaning between their teeth daily;
- Eating healthy foods and limiting sugary beverages;
- Visiting a dentist for a checkup.
BENECARE DONATES ORAL HYGIENE KITS TO LOCAL SCHOOLS
To support this year’s theme, BeneCare Dental Plans has teamed up with local schools and donated oral health kits to their elementary school students. Each kit contains: 1) toothbrush; 2) toothpaste; and 3) dental floss packaged in a convenient travel pouch.
The dental health kits, along with word search and crossword puzzles, will be used as teaching tools to help students learn about the importance of maintaining a healthy smile. “Oral health is an important component of overall health,” states Chambria Miller, Secretary at New York Avenue School in Atlantic City, NJ. “We’re pleased to participate in this observance.”
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For the origins of National Children’s Dental Health Month along with a brief history and other available resources, please refer to BeneCare’s blog post. This annual observance is a great way to help teach children healthy habits that will last them a lifetime.
ABOUT NEW YORK AVENUE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
New York Avenue Elementary School is a public school in Atlantic City, New Jersey that is part of Atlantic City Public School District. The New York Avenue School implements programs and practices that provide equal access that engage all students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We define a school climate and culture that helps all students reach a deeper understanding of personal, cultural, and historic aspects of identity to enrich our school community by involving all stakeholders. We challenge every individual to interact meaningfully with the entire school community; building off of shared learning experiences; and honoring our differences while embracing shared values.
For more information, visit New York Avenue Elementary School’s website.
[ii] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Children’s Dental Health,” accessed January 15, 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/publications/features/childrens-dental-health.html.
[ii] Susan Griffin PhD et al., “Vital Signs: Dental Sealant Use and Untreated Tooth Decay Among U.S. School-Aged Children,” October 21, 2016, accessed January 15, 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/65/wr/mm6541e1.htm#contribAff.
[iii] American Dental Association. “Free Posters, Postcards Available for Approaching 2024 National Children’s Dental Health Month,” n.d. https://adanews.ada.org/ada-news/2023/november/free-posters-postcards-available-for-approaching-2024-national-childrens-dental-health-month/. Last accessed January 15, 2024.
