February is National Children's Dental Health Month, an annual observance during which dental and medical professionals, educators, and parents focus efforts to improve the oral health of all children.

Tooth decay in children is a fast-growing problem in the United States posing serious health risks. It is the most chronic disease affecting American children. A child's overall health is closely linked to his or her oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a jump start in maintaining a lifetime of good oral health.

Beginning in 1941 as a 1-day event in Cleveland, Ohio, the American Dental Association (ADA) went on to hold its first national observance on February 8, 1949. This single day national observance became a weeklong event in 1955 and in 1981 and has finally extended to a month-long celebration now known as the National Children's Dental Health Month. Its message reaches millions of people in communities all across the country. The 2010 Dental Health Month's slogan is “For A Sparkly Smile, Remember To Brush and Floss Every Day.” Contests, games, puzzles, posters as well as educational activities, videos and booklets are offered by the ADA to promote the value of developing good oral health habits to provide a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums for a “Sparkly Smile.”

Download free games, activities, puzzles and educational materials by visiting www.ADA.org

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