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Trump urges Speaker Mike Johnson to raise taxes on the wealthy, adding new wrinkle to massive GOP bill; New Sierra Club dashboard tracks IN coal pollution; Report says moms spend 167% more time parenting than dads; MI 'clean fuels' backers speak out as Congress could end EV tax credits.

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A judge orders certification of the 2024 North Carolina Supreme Court race, Wisconsin Democrats want congressional maps redrawn, and the interim U.S. Attorney for District of Columbia loses the job over his support for January 6th rioters.

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Volunteers with AmeriCorps are devastated by cuts to the 30-year-old program, Head Start has dodged elimination but cuts are likely, moms are the most vulnerable when extreme weather hits, and bullfrogs await their 15-minutes of fame in rural California.

NC dentist has advice before Children's Dental Health Month ends

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Thursday, February 27, 2025   

Children's Dental Health Month is wrapping up but tips for parents and guardians could help their child's health beyond their teeth.

Oral health is a keystone of overall health for people in all kinds of ways.

Dr. Jessica Lee, professor of pediatric dentistry at the University of North Carolina, said there's no separation between dental health and children's success in other areas.

"If they have a toothache or if they're uncomfortable, they don't do as well in school, they can't concentrate, they miss school days," Lee outlined. "The smaller kids, the very young kids, they can often fail to thrive. So it's really a critical part to have good dental health for a child's overall health."

Lee noted brushing is, of course, crucial for children's dental health. She recommended kids brush their teeth for two minutes, which can be a challenge. Lee suggested adults play a song to encourage kids to brush and watch closely to ensure their children are brushing correctly.

Lee emphasized it is important to watch kids' diets, adding parents can be models for good behavior.

"We have access to so much processed foods, so many refined carbohydrates, so many sugars in our diets," Lee pointed out. "Some of it's so hidden. So for parents and caregivers, just be mindful of what their child is eating."

Lee underscored some adults might be surprised to learn baby teeth can get cavities. She acknowledged treating cavities in young children is difficult.

"If you could imagine a two-year-old getting a cavity and us trying to fix it," Lee said. "It's quite a challenge because they're just too young to sit in the chair and be able to get some really heavy dental treatment done."

Lee stressed fluoridated water is safe and protective for children's dental health. She encouraged parents and guardians to speak to their dentist or pediatrician if they have questions about fluoridated water systems.


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