[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 36 (Wednesday, February 27, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E218]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         DENTAL AWARENESS MONTH

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                           HON. PAUL A. GOSAR

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 27, 2019

  Mr. GOSAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of National 
Children's Dental Health Month. Each February, the American Dental 
Association unifies members of our healthcare community to recognize 
the importance of good oral health for our children and many others. As 
a former dentist, I know that quality dental care impacts your overall 
well-being. Proper Oral Health starts with the very first tooth as baby 
teeth are the building blocks to a healthy smile.
  According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, almost 
50 percent of children between the ages of 6 to 11 are affected by 
tooth decay. Tooth decay also happens to be the most common chronic 
disease in children. When a child suffers from dental pain, the impact 
is far reaching and can affect critical developmental stages including 
speaking, eating and learning.
  Although tooth decay is widespread, it is preventable. It is 
important to brush your children's teeth twice a day with fluoride 
toothpaste. This year's slogan for National Children's Dental Health 
Month is ``Brush and clean in between to build a healthy smile.'' If we 
as a society take these preventative measures to keep our children 
healthy, we can ultimately reduce healthcare costs and give our future 
generations the confidence they need in life. Please join me in raising 
awareness about the importance of oral health.

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