Give Kids a Smile Day

Dental Care Basics

Although it doesn't get as much attention as other health problems kids face, untreated dental disease is a very big problem.

To help combat this 'silent epidemic', a special event takes place during National Childrens Dental Health Month in February. It is Give Kids a Smile Day. This year, it is on Friday, February 3, 2006.

In 2007, it will take place on Friday, February 2.

In addition to providing free oral health care services to thousands of low-income children across the country, participating dentists and other organizations will help teach children about how to keep their teeth healthy.

This might include:

• tooth-brushing and flossing demonstrations
• educational displays in schools
• talks on the importance of eating healthy foods
• why it is important to have healthy teeth
• what keeps teeth from being healthy

Even if your child can't participate in a formal Give Kids a Smile Day activity, you can have a discussion with your kids about the five simple rules of health teeth:

• brush
• floss
• eat nutritious foods
• limit snacks
• visit your dentist

How do you find Give Kids a Smile Day events? You can visit the American Dental Association website or call your local Dental Association to see if there are any events in your area.