A smile can last a lifetime - if you take care of it. For this reason, it is important that parents instill good oral health habits in their children as early as possible.
According to US Surgeon General Richard H. Carmona's report, "National Call to Action to Promote Oral Health," children lose more than 51 million school hours each year and adults lose more than 164 million work hours each year due to dental disease or dental visits. The total bill for dental services in the country in 2002 was estimated at more than $70.1 billion. "Oral disease is making alarming inroads into communities across the country," explains Dr. Marsha Butler, vice president of global oral health and professional relations at Colgate-Palmolive. "For children ages 5 to 17 here in the U.S., tooth decay is more common than asthma, more common than hay fever, and a significant threat to the overall health and well-being of our children."
Recently, in celebration of National Children's Dental Health Month, Colgate and Dr. Carmona revealed the U.S. Surgeon General's "Seven Steps to a Brighter Smile," tips developed with a grant 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 the dentist regularly.
3. Floss your teeth daily.
4. Use a fluoride rinse for strong, healthy teeth and gums.
5. Limit the number of times you snack a day - and don't forget to eat healthy and get enough calcium.
6. Wear a mouth guard when playing sports.
7. Ask your dental professional about sealants.
Through its Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program, Colgate has reached more than 50 million children with free dental screenings, treatment referrals and oral health education. The company is more than halfway to fulfilling its public commitment to reach 100 million children with these services by 2010. Bright Smiles, Bright Futures empowers children to take control of their oral health and helps create greater awareness of the importance of maintaining good dental hygiene.