Keep children's smiles healthy in 2009 Published Feb. 12, 2009 By 92nd Aero Medical Dental Squadron FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- The way children care for their bodies today will have an impact on their health far into the new century. The good news for parents is that preventive dental care has dramatically improved the oral health of America children. It is now possible for many children to reach adulthood without ever experiencing tooth decay. February is National Children's Dental Health Month, and the American Dental Association makes the following suggestions to parents and caregivers: · Take your child to see the dentist regularly, beginning by the child's first birthday. · Put only water in the child's naptime or bedtime bottle. · Start brushing as soon as the child's first tooth appears. · Begin flossing when two teeth begin to touch · Brush and floss your child's teeth daily until the child can be taught to do it on their own. · Make certain your child gets the fluoride needed for decay -resistant teeth. Ask your dentist how this should be done. · Ask your dentist about dental sealants, a thin protective barrier that shields the chewing surfaces of the back teeth against tooth decay. Good oral health practices should be begin in infancy and continue throughout adult life according to Lt. Col. Scott Mazanec of the 92nd Aero Medical Dental Squadron, "The influence of parents on their child's development of good oral hygiene practices cannot be overemphasized." In a child's years, parents must provide good oral health care. As they get older, they need to instruct, monitor and motivate children to help maintain good oral habits. Attitudes and habits established at an early age are critical in maintaining good oral health throughout life.