At the School District of Lancaster, we recognize that a healthy smile is more than just about appearances—it’s a key part of a child’s overall health and success in school. That’s why we are proud to celebrate February as National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM), a nationwide initiative that promotes the importance of oral health for children and families.
The roots of this observance trace back to February 1941, when the first children’s dental health events were held in Cleveland and Akron, Ohio. By 1949, the American Dental Association (ADA) launched the first national Children’s Dental Health Day to expand awareness. The movement quickly grew, evolving into a weeklong observance in 1955 and, by 1981, an entire month dedicated to improving children’s oral health across the country.
Today, National Children’s Dental Health Month reaches millions of children and families each year, spreading awareness through poster contests, health fairs, free dental screenings, museum exhibits, classroom presentations, and dental office tours. The goal is simple: to instill healthy dental habits early so children can maintain strong, healthy teeth for a lifetime.
Why Oral Health Matters in the Classroom
Did you know that tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 1 in 5 children aged 5 to 11 have at least one untreated cavity. When left untreated, dental issues can cause:
- Pain and Discomfort – Toothaches can make it difficult for students to concentrate and participate in class.
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Missed School Days – Children with poor oral health are more likely to miss school due to dental-related issues.
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Speech and Eating Difficulties – Dental problems can make it harder for children to speak clearly and eat nutritious foods.
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Self-Confidence Issues – A healthy smile can boost a child’s self-esteem and willingness to engage with peers.
Dental health is also directly linked to a child’s overall health and academic success. According to the CDC:
- Children with poor oral health are three times more likely to miss school due to dental pain.
- Untreated cavities can cause difficulty in eating, speaking, and concentrating in class.
- Children experiencing dental issues may struggle with self-esteem, which can affect their social interactions and confidence in school.
At SDoL, we are committed to helping families prioritize oral health because we know that healthy smiles lead to better learning, greater confidence, and brighter futures!
Meet Our School Dental Hygienist: Karen Sherwood
We are fortunate to have Karen Sherwood, our School Dental Hygienist, working directly with students to provide dental screenings, preventive care, and education on healthy oral hygiene habits. Karen plays a vital role in ensuring that students receive the support they need to maintain strong, healthy smiles.
Through her work, students gain hands-on learning about proper brushing and flossing techniques, the effects of diet on dental health, and the importance of regular dental visits. Karen’s expertise helps identify potential dental concerns early, ensuring that students get the care they need before problems affect their education and well-being.
Building Healthy Habits: Tips for Families
The great news is that most dental problems are preventable with proper daily care. Here are a few simple ways to keep your child’s teeth healthy:
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Brush Twice a Day – Encourage your child to brush for two minutes, twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste. A fun way to make it easier? Play a song they love while they brush!
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Floss Daily – Flossing removes food particles and plaque that brushing alone can’t reach, preventing cavities and gum disease.
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Eat Nutritious Foods – A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy, and protein helps strengthen teeth. Crunchy foods like apples and carrots naturally clean teeth!
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Drink More Water – Fluoridated water is one of the easiest ways to prevent cavities. Encourage your child to choose water over sugary drinks like soda and juice.
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Schedule Regular Dental Checkups – A visit to the dentist every six months helps catch potential issues early and keeps teeth strong.
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Limit Sugary Snacks & Drinks – Too much sugar can lead to cavities. Swap out sugary snacks with cheese, yogurt, nuts, or whole fruits for a tooth-friendly treat.
Bringing Dental Health Awareness to Our Schools
Through the dedication of Karen Sherwood and our community health partners, SDoL remains committed to supporting students’ dental health. This February, we will share educational materials, resources, and opportunities for students and families to learn more about oral hygiene.
We invite parents, teachers, and community members to join us in promoting healthy smiles for all students. By building strong habits now, we can ensure that every child in Lancaster has the foundation for lifelong oral health and academic success.
Because when our students smile, our entire community shines! For more information, click here.