News

National Children's Dental Health month

  • Published
  • By Jonathan Bell
  • Robins Air Force Base Public Affairs

The 78th Dental Clinic on Robins Air Force Base started celebrating National Children's Dental Health month with a visit to Robins Child Development Center February 6, 2019.

Mrs. Toothpaste, being represented by Lisa Sims, 78th Dental Clinic Preventive Dentistry Manager, The Dentist, represented by Capt. Benjamin Rush, 78th Dental Clinic dental officer, and Mr. Toothy, represented by Airman 1st Class Keayla Hames-Baker, 78th Dental Clinic dental technician, educated the children on proper oral hygiene and nutritional habits.

During the visit, the children learned how often to visit the dentist, how to choose the proper snacks and what they can do to prevent tooth decay. Each child also participated in the Good Snacks Bad Snacks game and learned proper brushing and flossing techniques.

 “Oral health practices are something that has to be taught to children at an early age so they develop into good hygiene and nutritional habits,” said Sims. “Children’s teeth are meant to last a lifetime, with proper care, a balanced diet and regular dental visits, their teeth can remain healthy and strong.”

It is important for parents to take their children to a preliminary dental visit before the child reaches their first birthday.  The first visit can help educate the parents on ways to help their child prevent dental decay at an early age and subsequent dental problems throughout their lives.