Preventive Dentistry Published Feb. 5, 2009 By Maj. Doron Bresler 1st Special Operations Dental Squadron HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Preventive dentistry for children includes brushing, flossing, dental development, fluorides, oral habits, orthodontics, parental involvement, proper diet, sealants and sports safety. Preventive dentistry equals a healthy smile for children. Children with healthy mouths chew more easily, gain more nutrients from the foods they eat, learn to speak sooner and more clearly, have more confidence in their appearance and they have a better chance of general health because diseases in the mouth can endanger the rest of the body. Preventive dentistry begins with the first tooth and means less extensive and expensive treatment for children. Visit the dentist when the first tooth comes in and learn how to protect infant's dental health. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental disease and helping children child belong to a cavity-free generation. By visiting a dentist at an early age you children gain familiarity with teeth cleaning, polishing, fluoride treatments and preventative procedures like dental sealants and mouth guards. Dentists are uniquely trained to develop a combination of office and home preventive care to insure a happy smile. For further information, visit Web sites by the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.