National Children’s Dental Health Month is a good time to brush up on oral hygiene practices

Every Thursday, parents, grandparents and caregivers meet up for the Baby Bear Hugs playgroup with their little ones. Last week, in honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month, the group hosted Luz Nuñez from MMH Family Dental.

Nuñez is a certified dental assistant. She’s also bilingual, so she was able to give her presentation and answer questions in Spanish. Members of the group had plenty of time to ask questions, and Nuñez distributed toothbrushes and children’s books about dental hygiene at the end of her presentation.

 Baby Bear Hugs playgroup is open to anyone with young children. The group meets at First Baptist Church on Thursdays from 10 a.m.-noon. For more information, call 970-854-2921.

NCHD emphasizes importance of caring for baby teeth

Currently, in the U.S., tooth decay is the most common chronic condition affecting children and is 100% preventable.

Children with oral health problems often miss more school and receive lower grades, not to mention the pain and infections that can lead to many other problems later in life. The foundation for good oral health is laid during the first years of life, and parents are the greatest influencers. Teach children good dental care starting early for a lifetime of good oral health.

Baby teeth matter. As soon as teeth appear, decay can occur, and when a baby tooth is lost too early, the permanent teeth can drift into these empty spaces and make it difficult for other adult teeth to find room to come in. This can make teeth crooked or crowded. That’s why starting children off with good oral care can help protect their teeth for decades to come.

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