In a survey of more than 5,000 low-income Los Angeles County mothers, about a fourth reported that they only brush their 1 to 5-year-old's teeth once a day. In addition, 64 percent of the mothers, who are all participants in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, said they had never brought their children to the dentist. Nearly half said they hadn't gone because their children didn't have any teeth problems or they couldn't find a dentist who spoke their language.

The numbers are sad and shocking, and show that many of our county's families are not getting the outreach, direction and services they need. First 5 LA takes it role in February's National Children's Oral Health Month very seriously because we know how important dental care is for children.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday and after their first tooth appears. Developing good oral hygiene habits, including regular dental visits, helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Expecting mothers, as we report in this week's Monday Morning Report, should also receive proper dental care.

We know that there are some high hurdles for some families when it comes to accessing proper oral care and education. Over on our parenting website, Ready. Set. Grow!, we have resources and links for children and their families that we hope you use, and pass along:

• Here is a list of Oral Health month events that are open to the public.

• Click here for a list of family-friendly tips to keep kids' and expecting mothers' mouths healthy.

• Children and parents can play Tooth or Consequences, an interactive and educational oral health quiz.

• To find a low-cost dental care clinic by region, click here.

• Check out the Dental Dictionary for a list of commonly used oral health terms.

• New Ready. Set. Grow! subscribers will receive a free toothbrush and dental tip sheet

• Follow Ready. Set. Grow! on Facebook for more information and giveaways.

• The AAPD can help find a pediatric dentist.

Chief Executive Officer
First 5 LA

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