Maintaining healthy teeth is crucial for a lifetime of confident smiles. Instilling good oral hygiene habits in children from a young age is paramount. The U.S. Surgeon General’s report highlights the significant impact of dental disease, with millions of school and work hours lost annually, costing billions in dental services.
Dr. Marsha Butler emphasizes that tooth decay is a prevalent issue among children in the U.S., surpassing asthma and hay fever in frequency and posing a considerable threat to their overall well-being.
In collaboration with Colgate, the U.S. Surgeon General introduced “The U.S. Surgeon General’s Seven Steps to a Bright Smile,” offering practical advice for maintaining strong and healthy teeth and gums:
1. Brush thoroughly with fluoride toothpaste twice daily, particularly after breakfast and before bed.
2. Schedule regular dental check-ups.
3. Floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between teeth.
4. Use a fluoride rinse to strengthen teeth and gums.
5. Limit snacking and prioritize healthy eating habits, ensuring sufficient calcium intake.
6. Protect your teeth with a mouthguard during sports activities.
7. Consult your dentist about the benefits of dental sealants.
Colgate’s Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program provides free dental screenings, treatment referrals, and oral health education, having reached over 50 million children. This initiative empowers children to take charge of their oral health and promotes the importance of good dental hygiene.