width="280"February is National Children’s Dental Health and the American Association of Periodontology month start educating children and parents about the number one concern of the Surgeon General: preventing dental diseases – including periodontal disease in children.

Many people think that periodontal disease is an adult problem. However, studies indicate that gingivitis (the first stage of periodontal disease) is nearly universally in children and adolescents. Advanced forms of periodontal disease are much rarer in children than in adults, but can occur.

To ensure healthy teeth as an adult, you must establish good oral habits as a child. Parents can encourage good oral health habits at home. For example, parents may reward children with visits from the tooth fairy or the tooth fairy not only when you drop a tooth, but when the child passes the dental examination.