During the month of February, our Public Health Education Team will be providing all Pre-K through second grade teachers with free dental health books to read to the children and lesson plan activities to share in all of our Chenango County school districts. (File photo)

CHENANGO COUNTY - Good dental health is an important part of a child’s overall health and wellbeing, says the Chenango County Health Department.

Healthy teeth help children eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic conditions in children, but it is also largely preventable with proper care and regular dental visits.

Establishing good dental habits early can set children up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Parents and caregivers play a key role by helping children brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and encouraging daily flossing once teeth touch. Limiting sugary foods and drinks, especially juice and soda, also helps protect teeth from cavities. Children should visit a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in.

Our local health department works to promote children’s oral health through education and connection to resources. During the month of February, our Public Health Education Team will be providing all Pre-K through second grade teachers with free dental health books to read to the children and lesson plan activities to share in all of our Chenango County school districts. We are also working with the Dental Taskforce on new dental health initiatives this year. By partnering with healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations, we help families understand the importance of dental care and how to access services.

Children’s dental health is an essential part of growing up healthy. Preventing dental problems early can reduce pain, missed school days, and the need for more serious dental treatment later on. With good daily habits, and routine dental visits, most dental problems can be prevented.

Helpful Resources:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-Children’s Oral Health:

https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/about

2. American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry: https://www.aapd.org

3. American Academy of Pediatrics: https://www.healthychildren.org

4. American Dental Association: https://www.ada.org

Persons with questions or requiring additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

- From the Chenango County Health Department