Good oral hygiene can help prevent many dental problems and save you and your children from painful toothaches and costly dental concerns in the future. Learn more about the ways NAC raises oral health awareness with our partnership campaign, Strong Teeth, Strong Kid.
This oral health month, NAC is helping spread the word about the benefits of good oral health!
How does oral health influence overall health?
Good oral hygiene can help prevent many dental problems and save you and your children from painful toothaches and costly dental concerns in the future.
Practicing good oral health habits prevents bacteria in your mouth, cavities, gum disease and stinky breath. Did you know that the bacteria in your mouth can travel through your body and affect other bodily systems? Some health risks connected to a person’s oral health include: cardiovascular disease, dementia, respiratory infections, diabetes, pregnancy complications, infertility, cancer and other conditions.
Ensure your strong kid has strong teeth
The Strong Teeth Strong Kid Campaign raises awareness of the importance of dental milestones for American Indian children ages 0-5 years, created by NAC and other AZ oral health advocates. We're spreading awareness about the campaign to help parents and guardians navigate their family's oral health journey. Check out the oral health facts and resources below and visit the STSK website for more information about the campaign.
Resources & Dental Clinics in Maricopa County and tribal lands across Arizona
Visit the links below for to find a dental clinic and other dental resources available to you.
For American Indian / Alaska Native Adults and Children
For All Children and Adults in Maricopa County
Why is oral health important at all ages?
Babies - Babies are born with all their teeth, hiding just under their gums. Using a clean, damp washcloth to wipe any milk or formula off baby's gums twice daily will ensure baby's teeth are healthy from day one. Check out these markers of proper infant oral health. Infant Milestones >>
Toddlers - As soon as your toddler has a tooth, plaque can begin building up and causing decay. Having toddlers start brushing early will help improve your child’s oral health and there’s a better chance brushing can become routine for them as they grow. Toddler Milestones >>
Children - Cavities are one of the most common concerns for children. About 1 of 5 (20%) children aged 5-11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth, potentially causing pain and distraction. Find out ways you can help your strong kid build healthy habits.
Teens & Young Adults - Young adults start experiencing more independence and responsibility when they grow older. At times oral health habits may suffer as young adults tend to eat out more, drink more sugary drinks such as energy drinks, and may start smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages. It’s important to pay attention to and continue practicing healthy dental habits no matter your age. More on Teen & Young Adult Oral Health >>
Adults & Elders - Are parents following their own oral health advice? According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adult and elder oral health problems include untreated tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss and oral cancer. People with chronic diseases such as arthritis, heart disease and COPD are more likely to develop gum disease. Learn More About Adult Oral Health >>
Pregnant Women - Do pregnant women need to see a dentist during pregnancy? Yes! Good oral hygiene is important during pregnancy because changes in hormone levels can cause your mouth to be more vulnerable and susceptible to bleeding gums, bacteria and plaque. Problems with your oral health could harm your baby such as having your baby too early. Learn about caring for oral health through pregnancy. Learn More About Oral Health for Pregnant Women >>
More about the STSK campaign and partnership
Native American Connections and the Arizona Advisory Council on Indian Health Care launched the Strong Teeth, Strong Kid Campaign in November 2019, coinciding with Native American Heritage Month.
The Strong Teeth Strong Kid Campaign raises awareness of the importance of dental milestones for American Indian children ages 0-5 years. The Campaign S-milestones will help ensure children grow up with totally AHHH-SOME Teeth!
Our Partners
Arizona Advisory Council on Indian Health Care
KidsCare-AZ Health Children's Health Insurance
To learn more about the campaign, check our our oral health education page and visit us at strongteethstrongkid.org.
Become an Oral Health Partner! Email TobytheTooth@nativeconnections.org or call (602) 254-3247.