February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, sponsored by the American Dental Association. During this time, Konza Prairie Community Health Center is highlighting their year-round efforts to provide oral hygiene outreach to children across the region.
Konza’s full time community dental outreach staff of two – a dental hygienist and dental hygiene assistant – visits preschools, schools, and daycares throughout the region to provide free oral health screening for children. The duo also gives a fun, engaging, age-appropriate oral hygiene presentation to promote healthy habits and reduce anxiety around dental care. During the school year they visit more than 80 schools in 19 school districts. These interactions are often the first dental care a child has had.
“Good oral care helps keep baby teeth strong and promotes healthy permanent teeth for a lifetime,” said Dr. Taylor Pratt, Konza Dental Director. “A healthy smile is important to a child’s self-esteem. Sometimes there is fear associated with going to the dentist, we want to connect with children where they are and establish relationships that help to reduce that fear and make routine dental care easier for the whole family.”
Oral health should be a priority for the whole family. Konza dental clinics in Junction City and Manhattan provide comprehensive dental care for all ages. Konza’s team of four dentists and over 20 support staff routinely provide cleanings, fillings, root canals, crowns and much more. Konza dental hygienists help patients to develop and maintain good oral health for life.
For more information about National Children’s Dental Health Month please visit www.ada.org.
Baby Teeth are Important – Start Brushing Early
Did you know? Getting babies used to teeth cleaning at an early age – even before their first teeth appear – is an important part of your child’s oral health. Start by gently wiping their teeth and gums each evening before bed. Adding this to their bedtime routine can make it easier when it’s time to start brushing.
Brush Twice A Day for Two Full Minutes
Brushing for two minutes, twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste is the best way to prevent cavities, but two minutes can seem like a long time! How do you make sure your child brushes for a full two minutes? Fun videos can help!
Check out Brusha Brusha! from Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood (PBS)
Build Healthy Habits with Regular Dental Checkups
Healthy dental habits begin early in life so it’s important to bring your children in for regular dental checkups. Konza accepts most types of insurance and offers discounts for uninsured patients. Schedule an appointment for your little ones today!
Junction City: 785-238-4711
Manhattan: 785-320-7134
