MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Families gathered at the Branch Medical Clinic, Feb. 7, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., for children to get a free dental check-up, to be part of the annual National Children's Health Month.
"The American Dental Association has named February as Kid's Month," said Navy Lt. Jeff Bleile, Dental Clinic dental officer. "This is something going on in the U.S., as well as all bases around the world."
The American Dental Association held the first national observance of Children's Dental Health Day on Feb. 8, 1949. Over the years, it has extended to a month-long celebration. Now it is known as National Children's Dental Health Month.
"We're here to promote healthy smiles and also encourage parents to instill good dental habits with their children," added Bleile.
As a significant day at the dental office, face painting, balloon animals, and prizes were given to children.
"We have all sorts of games, crossword puzzles and word search, that are appropriate with dental terminology to make it more understandable for the children," said Bleile.
"I think it's a great thing for the children to get a free check-up. All the activities they have are for the children, which make this a special event. The games also help occupy their time while they are waiting," said Toni P. Keating, mother of three children who got check-ups.
At the clinic, children receiving the free check-up ranged from two to 14 years old.
"Two years is a good age for parents to start bringing their children in for a dental check-up. At that age there shouldn't be any problems, regarding their teeth," said Navy Lt. Nathan E. Gelder, Dental Clinic dental officer.
Children can have a full set of teeth by the time they are 3 years old, but decay can occur as soon as teeth appear in the mouth. This often occurs at the age of six months, according to Bleile.
Parents should begin cleaning their child's mouth during the first few days after birth. Cleaning the mouth can remove plaque and remaining food that can harm teeth that are about to grow out.
"It is important for parents to keep their children's teeth healthy," Bleile said.