National Children’s Dental Health Month
currently viewing
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Date
Saturday
Feb
1
February 1-28
National Children’s Dental Health Month
February is National Children's Dental Health Month - help your little ones keep their smiles healthy with regular brushing and flossing!
Introduction
February 1 marks the start of National Children’s Dental Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of good oral health habits for kids. This special month has been celebrated since 1941 and was created to focus on preventing tooth decay and gum disease in children. It’s also a great opportunity for parents to learn more about how they can help their kids develop healthy brushing and flossing habits that will last a lifetime. So let’s get ready to celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month with lots of fun activities and educational resources!
National Children’s Dental Health Month Timeline
1941
Inaugural Children's Dental Health Day
Cleveland, Ohio celebrated the first Children's Dental Health Day, aimed at promoting healthy dental habits among children.
1955
American Dental Association Involvement
The American Dental Association (ADA) started observing Children's Dental Health Day nationwide.
1959
Extended to a Week
Recognizing the importance of the cause, the observance was extended to a week-long celebration.
1981
Becomes a Month-Long Observance
ADA extended the event to a month long, establishing February as National Children's Dental Health Month.
How to Celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month
1
Organize a dental care drive
Collect toothbrushes, toothpaste and other dental hygiene items and donate them to a local children’s dental clinic or school in need.
2
Educate children about dental health
Put together an educational presentation for children to teach them about proper oral hygiene, the importance of regular dental visits, and how to take care of their teeth.
3
Host a smile contest
Encourage children to show off their best smiles by hosting a “smile” contest. Prizes can be awarded to the best smiles.
4
Encourage healthy eating habits
Educate children on how to eat healthy and make sure they are getting enough nutrients to help keep their teeth strong and healthy.
5
Plan a visit to the dentist
Arrange for the children to have a fun visit to the dentist where they can learn about proper oral hygiene and have their teeth checked.
Why National Children’s Dental Health Month is Important
A
It encourages good dental habits
By raising awareness of the importance of good oral hygiene, National Children’s Dental Health Month encourages young people to practice healthy habits like brushing and flossing regularly. These habits can help protect children from developing cavities and other oral health problems in the future.
B
It promotes access to care
National Children’s Dental Health Month also serves to raise awareness about the need for greater access to dental care for children in low income families. A child’s success in school and life is often determined by their physical, mental, and emotional health – all of which depend on receiving proper care of their teeth and gums.
C
It educates parents and caregivers
In addition to educating children about proper dental hygiene, National Children’s Dental Health Month also provides an opportunity for parents and caregivers to learn about how best to care for their little ones’ smiles. It’s important for adults to understand the risks associated with poor oral health, so that they can teach children preventive measures like brushing twice a day, eating nutritious foods, and visiting a dentist regularly.
National Children’s Dental Health Month Dates
Year
Date
Day
2023
Feb 1
Wednesday
2024
Feb 1
Thursday
2025
Feb 1
Saturday
2026
Feb 1
Sunday
2027
Feb 1
Monday