Dental health begins at birth According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, nearly half of all kids have tooth decay before age 5. Dental decay can start as soon as a baby tooth appears. In California, by the time children are in preschool, 27 percent have at least one tooth with untreated decay, according to the Dental Health Foundation. Baby teeth are just as important as permanent teeth because they help kids chew food, speak clearly and save space for the permanent teeth and are important to a child's overall self-esteem.  Dental decay can impact a child’s ability to learn because painful infections can cause a child to miss school and have trouble focusing. The good news is dental decay is entirely preventable.Visit the dentist around the time your child’s first tooth comes in. After that, take your child for a dental check-up each year. Helping your child develop good oral health care habits early on and going to the dentist regularly can help keep his or her smile sparkling into adulthood. Parents can take the following steps to ensure healthy teeth and gums for their young children: - Limit frequent snacking - Choose nutritious snacks - Help them brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste - Floss daily - Have sealants applied when appropriate - Schedule regular dental check-ups - Avoid nursing babies to sleep or putting anything other than      water in their bedtime bottle.  FEBRUARY IS DENTAL HEALTH MONTH