The temperatures are dropping and crisp cool air is arriving.  The days become shorter and trees are changing color.  We notice orange and black Halloween decorations adorning yards and we are decorating our homes for the occasion.  It’s the perfect time to pass out toothbrushes along with a reminder on how to brush and floss after consuming that delicious candy.  We don’t want cavities!
 
Maybe your educational reminder could include some terms and meanings – helping parents as well as children:

• Plaque  -  PLAK
• Bacteria  -  bak-TEER-ee-uh
• Gingivitis  -  jin-juh-VI-tis

 
We’re lucky that we know so much now about taking care of our teeth.  While you are brushing your teeth today, think about what people used long ago to clean teeth:

• Ground-up chalk or charcoal
• Lemon juice
• Ashes
• Tobacco and honey mixed together

Yuck!
 
It was only about 100 years ago that someone created a minty cream to help clean teeth.  Not long after that, the toothpaste tube was invented, made of metal.  Tooth brushing became popular during World War II.  The U.S. Army gave brushes and toothpaste to all soldiers, and they learned to brush twice a day. 
 
Other topics you might want to add to your “reminder”.

• Toothpaste the size of a pea is all that is needed. 
• Brush at least twice a day.  After breakfast and before bedtime are usually good times.
• Brush all your teeth not just the front ones.
• Spend at least 2 to 3 minutes each time you brush.  A little timer might be helpful.
• Depending on the child’s age and dexterity they can learn to floss properly.
• Gentle brushing of the tongue
• Visit their dentist twice a year.
• Be diet mindful.  Lots of fruits and vegetables and water instead of soda.

 
These ideas should help make happy smiles.