Fact:  120 million Americans lack dental care (U.S. Surgeon General)

Unlike most people, I like going to the dentist. I don’t get nervous or squeamish and I take really good care of my teeth.  I’ve started early with my son and he actually enjoys brushing his teeth.  He grabs his toothbrush in the morning and tries really hard to brush his teeth while he says “Brush teeth! in the most adorable toddler speak ever.  You may not know this (I didn’t) but February is National Children’s Dental Health Month.  Sponsored by the American Dental Association (ADA) they aim to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Healthy habits are instilled within children at an early age.  I want my son to grow up valuing the importance of a healthy smile.  

Every year at this time, Tom’s of Maine (creator of natural oral care products) works to help families attain access to dental care through it’s Dental Health for All™ program.  A portion of all Tom’s of Maine purchases are donated to achieve dental care access to Americans.  In February, the company will award dental clinics across the country grants for oral health projects. 

Here are some of the program’s results over the past few years from their website:

• 25 school- and community-based dental clinics have received grants from Tom’s to increase patient capacity and improve or expand their patient services.
• Nearly 60,000 annual patient visits can now be scheduled.
• Over 238,000 tubes of free toothpaste have been given to underserved children and adults.

Check out some of the fabulous resources over at Tom’s of Maine including an oral health quiz and a coloring book for kids. 

For more information, please visit the site.