Each February, the American Dental Association sponsors National Childrens Dental Health Month (NCDHM) to raise awareness about the importance of oral health.  NCDHM provides messages and materials that have reached millions of children across the country. 

Southern Illinois Smiles participates in NCDHM by hosting several field trips for children in our community.  We at Southern Illinois Smiles feel that good habits at an early age will benefit the children in our community.  We recommend scheduling regular dental visits to help children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

1)  CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses.

2)  Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.  Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

3)  Wash your hands often with soap and water.  If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

4)  Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.   Germs spread this way.

5)  Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

6)  If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities.  (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)

And finally, never share toothbrushes with another person, and do not store your toothbrush where it can touch another person's toothbrush.  This can lead to cross-contamination and the spreading of illness.

Tips for Brushing Your Teeth

Flashing your best, most healthy smile means brushing well and often.  In fact, the American Dental Association recommends brushing teeth twice a day for dental hygiene and to help promote dental health.  Make the most of that time by giving your brushing technique a refresher.

 Tooth Brushing Technique

You've been brushing your teeth your whole life, but are you getting the most from your efforts? The following techniques will help you get the most thorough clean.

     1) On the outer and inner surfaces, brush your teeth at a 45-degree angle in short half-tooth-wide strokes against    the gum line.

     2) On chewing surfaces, hold the brush flat and brush back and forth.

     3) On inside surfaces of front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and use gentle up and down strokes with toe of brush.

     4) Brush the tongue in a back-to-front sweeping motion to remove food particles and freshen your mouth.

 Remember to spend at least 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth, adding up to two minutes each time you brush.

 Choose the Right Toothpaste

Colgate and Crest toothpastes contain flouride, which helps strengthen weak spots and prevent tooth cavities.  And whether you're looking for tarter protection, a rush of flavor, or dentist-inspired protection, there is a toothpaste that's right for you.

 Change Your Toothbrush

Most dental professionals recommend replacing your toothbrush every three months.  To remind yourself, write the date you should change your toothbrush in permanent marker on the handle.

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