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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 1 , 2021

CONTACT : Michelle Berrones
Communications Coordinator ( 717 ) 234-5941 , ext . 104 mmb @ padental . org
PDA Reminds Parents about the Importance of Children ’ s Oral Health
HARRISBURG , PA – February once again brings National Children ’ s Dental Health Month ( NCDHM ), an oral health campaign that helps educate children about the importance of maintaining good oral health and developing healthy habits that will carry into adulthood .
By the time a child sees the dentist for the first time , it is likely that 1 in 5 will have some form of tooth decay . The good news is that tooth decay in children can often be prevented when parents are proactive . “ Oral health is a window to our overall health . The earlier we learn to take better care of our mouths , the better our long term lives will be ,” said Dr . Samer Mansour , Pennsylvania Dental Association ’ s ( PDA ) statewide NCDHM chair and a member dentist practicing in Erie .
PDA encourages parents to help their children develop good habits at an early age , including :
• Brush teeth twice a day , for at least two minutes each time . Help your kids brush their teeth two minutes each time , twice a day -- for healthier teeth , fresh breath , fewer cavities and to avoid painful dental problems .
• Floss between teeth at least once a day . Break off about 18 inches of floss ( the length from a fingertip to your elbow ) and use it to floss younger kids ’ teeth or teach older kids how to do it themselves .
• Establish healthy eating habits for your child . Offer a variety of foods from the five major food groups : fruits , vegetables , dairy , grains and meat / poultry / fish . A balanced diet helps keep your children ’ s teeth and gums healthy . A diet high in natural or added sugars may place your child at extra risk for tooth decay .