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Learning how to get that perfect smile!

  • Published
  • By Melanie Moore
  • 79th Medical Wing Public Affairs Office
February is National Children's Dental Health Month. On Feb. 5, members of the Dental Squadron from the 779th Medical Group went to the Child Development Center on Joint Base Andrews. This year's campaign slogan is "Sugar Wars" to educate children of all ages about fighting against the Sweet Tooth Invaders for good oral health. It also demonstrates effective ways to defeat the effects of sugar and maintain good oral health by brushing, flossing, rinsing, and eating healthy snacks. A few of the members wore costumes to entertain the children. Captain (Dr.) Melissa Holt, an Air Force dentist was the toothbrush; her daughter Samantha was the tooth; and Airman 1st Class Elizabeth Smith, a dental assistant, was the toothpaste.

Tech. Sgt. Tina Phelps-Prince, NCOIC for preventive dentistry, helped one member of the class dress up as a dentist while another classmate highlighted how she brushes her teeth using a hand held set of teeth.

To teach the kids about good dental health they played a game to match good foods versus bad foods. The funniest part of the game came when one boy screamed out that gummy bears should go in the good food category.

"Well, it might taste good to your tummy, but sugar is bad for your teeth," said Phelps-Prince.

Master Sgt. Millicent Cavazos, dental hygienist, talked to the children and answered their questions about brushing, flossing, rinsing, and eating healthy snacks. Each child was given a goodie bag with a toothbrush and dental floss included.

"Keep your smile sparkling! Please limit those sugary treats. Eat lots of healthy food and most important, don't forget to brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day," said Holt.

USAF. (U.S. Air Force Graphic by Rosario "Charo" Gutierrez)