2022 National Children's Dental Health Month focuses on sealants

National observance brings people together by promoting good oral health

February is National Children's Dental Health Month, with the 2022 theme being "Sealants Make Sense."

The month is a national health observance that brings together thousands of dedicated professionals, health care providers and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, their caregivers, teachers and many others.

Irene Hilton, D.D.S., chair of the ADA Council on Advocacy for Access and Prevention’s advisory committee on dental sealants, said sealants are an equitable way to prevent caries.

"Sealants on permanent molars reduce the risk of caries by 80%,” Dr. Hilton said. "If your dentist recommends dental sealants, it is part of a comprehensive caries management approach. I am excited that this year" National Children" Dental Health Month theme is about dental sealants, so more families are aware of this cavity-preventing treatment. "The NCDHM Program Planning Guide, available in mid-November at National Children's Dental Health Month, provides program coordinators, dental societies, teachers and parents with resources to promote the benefits of good oral health to children. The guide includes easy-to-do activities, program planning timetable tips, a sample NCDHM proclamation and more.