State officials offer tips for kids’ dental health

February is National Children's Dental Health Month. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

CHICAGO – State health officials are offering tips for children’s dental care.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. It started decades ago with the mission of helping parents, caregivers and children make good oral health a part of their lifestyles.

David Miller is a dentist with the Illinois Department of Public Health. He says it’s important to promote good habits early on.

The agency’s tips include avoid putting babies to bed with a bottle and check their teeth regularly for spots and stains. For toddlers to teens, health officials say make sure to brush teeth with a fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly.