February is National Children’s Dental Health Month
Join the Maryland State Department of Education’s (MSDE) Division of Early Childhood, the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Maryland’s Dental Action Coalition and thousands of schools and programs nationwide to celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month in February! This year’s theme is “Water, Nature’s Drink.”
Now in its 80th year, National Children’s Dental Health Month brings together dental care professionals, health care providers, teachers, providers, parents and families to promote the benefits of good oral health. During this month-long national observance, experts will share helpful information, resources and tips for families on thumb sucking, the first dental visit, when to expect changes from primary to permanent teeth, proper brushing and flossing techniques and the importance of regular dental examinations. Most importantly, this year’s campaign focuses on eliminating sugary beverages in children’s diets.
According to the ADA, individuals consume approximately 50 gallons of sugary beverages per year in the U.S. As a result of COVID-19 quarantines and remote work and learning, many people find themselves eating snacks throughout the day. The fact is that a steady diet of sugary foods and drinks can ruin teeth, including ― grazing habitually on foods with minimal nutritional value and frequently sipping on sugary drinks. Consuming too much sugar can also affect children’s overall health and contribute to lifetime health issues, such as obesity, heart disease or type 2 diabetes, says the ADA.
By participating in National Children’s Dental Health Month activities and workshops, families, educators and other community members can work together to ensure children’s teeth are strong and healthy. The first step is for children to steer clear of sugary drinks and beverages and drink plenty of nature’s drink: water.
For more information on eliminating sugary beverages in children’s diets, check out the 7 Tips for Getting Children to Enjoy Nature’s Drink.
For more information about the 2021 National Children’s Dental Health Month, visit: ada.org.
2021 NCDHM Poster
The 2021 NCDHM poster is brought to you by the ADA. This year’s NCDHM campaign slogan is “Water, Nature’s Drink.” Download the “official” National Children’s Dental Health Month Poster here:
8.5″x 11″ Flier Size
Download Poster
8.5″x11″/ Flier Size
Download Poster (Spanish)