At Bowers Orthodontic Specialists we strive to build and maintain beautiful smiles and also educate our patients. To us, there is nothing more important than practicing excellent oral hygiene. One of the best ways to generate awareness on the importance of oral hygiene is by promoting wonderful causes such as National Children’s Dental Health Month.
What Is National Children's Dental Health Month?
National Children’s Dental Health month is an observed month recognized by the American Dental Association as well as dental professionals, educators, health providers and many others. This month long observance serves to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, their caregivers and others. 
The campaign for 2016 is “Sugar Wars” encouraging children to join the fight against sugar by brushing and flossing consistently. As parents it is your duty to encourage your child to practice the best oral hygiene possible by doing the following every day:
• Brushing
• Flossing
• Rinsing
• Eating Healthier Snacks
How Can You Help Promote Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits?
We often hear from parents that they have a hard time encouraging their child to follow the above guidelines. One great way to get children to develop healthier habits is by incentivizing them to do so. Many parents use the “Gold Star System”, where the parent creates a chart, for each day the child practices perfect oral hygiene they receive a star. Based on the system, the child gets a prize after a certain amount of stars are earned. Eventually the chart can be removed from the equation and the habits will remain.
Don't Forget To Visit Your Bloomington, IL Orthodontist!
Although it is important that your child learns to embrace a strict oral hygiene routine, nothing replaces the six month check ups with your dentist. Avoiding trips to the dentist can lead to cavities, severe tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to further health issues. If you have any further questions about how you can pass on excellent oral hygiene to your children please do not hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to answer your questions or help you schedule an appointment.