A smile can last a lifetime, if you handle it. For that reason, it is important for parents to instill good oral health habits in children as soon as possible.
According to the report "Call for national action to promote oral health" from the United States General Surgeon Richard H. Carmona, children lose more than 51 million school hours and adults lose more than 164 million work hours each year due to dental disease or a visit to the dentist. The total state bills for dental services are estimated at more than $ 70.1 billion in 2002.
"Oral health ailments have made a breakthrough in communities across the country," explained Dr. Marsha Butler, Vice President of Global Oral Health and Professional Relations at Colgate-Palmolive. "For children aged 5 to 17 here in the US, tooth decay is more common than asthma, more common than fever, and is a significant threat to the overall health and well-being of our children."
Recently, during the celebration of the National Children's Dental Health Month, Colgate and Dr. Carmona launches the Seven Steps to Shining Smiles from "US General Surgery." Act. ", Which was developed, with funds from Colgate-Palmolive, to help keep teeth and gums strong and healthy:
1. Brush your teeth and gums with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, especially after breakfast and before bed.
2. Visit a dentist regularly.
3. Floss every day.
4. Use fluoride rinse to have strong and healthy teeth and gums.
5. Limit how many times you eat light meals every day, and remember to take a healthy diet and consume lots of calcium.
6. Wear mouth protection when exercising.
7. Ask your dental professional about dental sealants.
Through the Bright Smiles program, Bright Futures, Colgate has reached more than 50 million children with free dental exams, referrals for care and oral health education. The company is more than halfway to fulfilling its public commitment to reach 100 million children with this service in 2010. Bright Smile, Bright Futures allows children to control their oral health and help raise awareness about the importance of Maintaining good dental health.