Neighbor News
February is National Children's Dental Health Month -- Helpful Tips For Healthy Teeth and Smiles All Year Round
National Children's Dental Health Month, celebrated every February, educates children, parents and teachers about proper dental hygiene
Good dental health and habits are important for all ages. However, getting children to brush their teeth, floss and eat healthy on a daily basis can be a daunting task for parents. It is a parent’s dream to hear their children do not have cavities, gingivitis or weak teeth at their annual dental check-up. National Children’s Dental Health Month, celebrated every February, educates children, parents and teachers about proper dental hygiene and how to have healthy teeth and smiles all year round.
Dr. Scott Loeser, a local Westchester dentist and father of three, recently educated a group of first graders at Fox Meadow Elementary School, in Scarsdale, NY, about the importance of oral hygiene. Dr. Loeser and his two assistants (puppets), Molar the dragon and Canine the dog, educated the kids about good dental health, nutrition and proper brushing technique. Everyone got a chance to practice brushing Molar and Canine’s teeth with a giant toothbrush. Dr. Loeser presented and explained several x-rays of a child’s mouth and adult’s mouth to highlight how our teeth develop over time. Dr. Loeser also explained every aspect and part of the human tooth. Every child received a toothbrush, toothpaste, a brushing chart and a little gift as well.
Below, are Dr. Scott Loeser’s recommendations for children’s dental care:
• Children should brush their teeth after every meal for two to three minutes
• Parents should encourage healthy eating and habits. Avoid candy, especially sticky candy, and sugary drinks and sodas
• Children should have dental sealants applied to their teeth once their six year molars come in. Sealants help protect the teeth from bacteria which may result in future cavities
• Many Americans hate the idea of flossing; however, both children and parents, need to floss once a day for clean, healthy teeth and gums
• Children should visit their dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and check-ups to ensure their teeth are developing properly
• Make brushing fun! Play their favorite song to get them through brushing and flossing their teeth or have them choose their own favorite toothbrush color and toothpaste flavor
Dr. Loeser has been practicing general dentistry for over a decade and has been at his current location, Scott F. Loeser, D.M.D., D.I.C.O.I., P.C. & Associates, in Thornwood, NY for 14 years. Dr. Loeser is highly skilled in performing dental implants as well as all aspects of General Dentistry and has recently become a Diplomate with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. In addition to his general dentistry practice in Thornwood, Dr. Loeser opened two urgent care dental facilities in Scarsdale and Riverdale. Urgent Care Dental specializes in treating dental emergencies and treating pain exclusively. The offices are open seven days a week, 365 days a year and provide a better alternative to hospital emergency rooms, which are generally not equipped to handle such dental emergencies.
