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A new study shows health disparities cost Texas billions of dollars; Senate rejects impeachment articles against Mayorkas, ending trial against Cabinet secretary; Iowa cuts historical rural school groups.

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The Senate dismisses the Mayorkas impeachment. Maryland Lawmakers fail to increase voting access. Texas Democrats call for better Black maternal health. And polling confirms strong support for access to reproductive care, including abortion.

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Rural Wyoming needs more vocational teachers to sustain its workforce pipeline, Ohio environmental advocates fear harm from a proposal to open 40-thousand forest acres to fracking and rural communities build bike trail systems to promote nature, boost the economy.

Utah Kids, Parents Urged to Take Care of Teeth

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Thursday, February 12, 2015   

SALT LAKE CITY - Teaching young children and reminding parents of the value of good oral health is the mission of "National Children's Dental Health Month," sponsored each February by the American Dental Association.

Dr. Kim Michelson, State Dental Director at the Utah Department of Health, says about one in four children younger than age five already has cavities. He says taking care of teeth should start at an early age.

"As soon as you can see the first tooth coming in, at that point you can just take a washcloth or something and clean off that small little area of the tooth," he says. "Once the teeth start coming in a little bit more, then you'll want to start using a child-size toothbrush that's soft."

Michelson says good oral health means brushing teeth for two minutes twice a day, as well as daily flossing and regular dental checkups.

Diet is another important factor for good oral health. Michelson says parents should try to limit the amount of sugary foods and drinks their children consume to help avoid tooth decay. He adds that isn't the only reason for good nutrition.

"Eating regular healthy meals is important just for your overall health as well," says Michelson. "It can help reduce obesity. I think a lot of problems occur because of frequent snacking and eating in between meals."

Michelson says the State of Utah provides preventive and treatment services for hundreds of low-income and uninsured families in the state. For kids, those services can include dental sealants, fluoride varnish and treating dental diseases.


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