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20th DS puts smiles on children’s faces

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Destinee Dougherty
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  With February being Children's Dental Health Month, the 20th Dental Squadron taught approximately 110 second graders about dental hygiene at Willow Drive Elementary School in Sumter, South Carolina, Feb. 18 and the Child Development Center on Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., Feb. 19.

Every year members assigned to the 20th DS teach local children from various elementary schools and the CDC about good dental hygiene, and supply them with a toothbrush, floss, and a timer, to ensure they have the tools they need for healthy teeth.

Often times children don't go to the dentist until after they have a cavity, in which case it could be too late, said Capt. (Dr.) Ashley Clark, 20th DS general dentist.
"We want them to have good exposure to a dentist first and to learn what good habits are," said Clark.

Children begin to lose their baby teeth at around 6 years old.  Children's baby teeth are incredibly important because they are the space holders for permanent teeth.

Dentists recommend children start good dental hygiene as soon as they develop teeth, which is usually around 6 months old.

"Please lead by example," said Staff Sgt. Tonya L. Collett, 20th DS non-commissioned officer in charge of preventative dentistry.  "Make sure that your kids are definitely up on their hygiene, that you're having them brush at least twice a day. In the morning when they wake up and at night when they go to bed is most important."

Collett recommends brushing for two minutes, flossing at least once a day, seeing a dentist regularly, and limiting sugary snacks.

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, over 19% of children in the U.S. between the ages of 2-19 have untreated cavities; therefore it is imperative that children start developing a healthy routine at a young age.