02/19/2026
National Children’s Dental Health Month
by Miranda Scholz, DDS
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, which was established to highlight the importance of pediatric dental care. At the Wahzhazhe Dental Department, we work every day to keep our kids’ smiles healthy, and we wanted to take this opportunity to explain how you, as parents, can help.
Many people assume that baby teeth are not important because they will eventually be lost. This could not be further from the truth. Baby teeth are, of course, important for speaking, chewing, and smiling, but they also play an important role in saving space for adult teeth. When baby teeth are extracted due to extensive tooth decay, the surrounding teeth can shift to fill the space, preventing the adult teeth from erupting properly. Cavity-causing bacteria can also spread from baby teeth to adult teeth.
Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease, affecting up to 40% of children by kindergarten. Even young children under 1 are at risk of tooth decay from bottle use. When babies are put to sleep with a bottle, their teeth are exposed to the sugars in the milk for a prolonged period, which can lead to tooth decay. Cavities can, of course, be painful, progress into dental infections, increase the amount of time spent away from school and other activities, and, if the front teeth are involved, can affect the child’s self-esteem.
So, what can be done to prevent tooth decay in children?
· Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your child’s teeth twice per day for two minutes with a soft-bristle toothbrush, morning and night. For babies who do not yet have teeth, gently wipe their gums with a soft, damp washcloth after each feeding to remove harmful bacteria. If your child’s teeth are touching, floss them once per day.
· Limit cavity-causing foods. Sugary foods and drinks, including fruit juices and fruit gummy snacks, put your child at high risk for tooth decay. Instead, opt for whole fruit, vegetables, or calcium-rich dairy snacks, such as cheese. Drink plenty of water, which can help rinse away sugars and food debris. Never put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk.
· Schedule a dental visit. Children should first see the dentist for a checkup before their first birthday or within six months of getting their first tooth. This helps establish a relationship with your dentist and hygienist, reinforces good habits, and, hopefully, prevents childhood dental anxiety.
We are always accepting new patients, including pediatric patients, at the Wahzhazhe Dental Department. Call 918-287-9300 to schedule your appointment.
