Did you know that dental health has an entire month dedicated to it? February is National Children’s Dental Health Month! The TW Orthodontics team wants to help kids all over the area understand just how important their oral health is to their overall health. Your oral health is directly related to your overall health!

Oral Health Facts (taken from the CDC)

  • Cavities (also known as caries or tooth decay) are one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood in the United States.
  • Untreated cavities can cause pain and infections that may lead to problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning.
  • About 1 of 5 (20%) children aged 5 to 11 years have at least one untreated decayed tooth.
  • 1 of 7 (13%) adolescents aged 12 to 19 years have at least one untreated decayed tooth.

To help lower these statistics, the American Association of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) recommends that babies see a pediatric dentist by age one. Good oral hygiene begins with babies and toddlers!

In addition, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that your child see an orthodontist no later than age seven. This will give doctors a chance to find any concerns that may be developing with your child’s jaws and teeth. Catching potential problems at an early stage can save you money and keep your child healthy!

Have a child around age seven? TW Orthodontics offers complimentary exams at all of our locations. Now is the perfect time to meet our team and have your child’s smile checked by a specialist!