Tooth decay is the most common chronic illness among preschoolers, and the Norfolk Health Department hopes to help take a bite out of those dental problems.

A child is prone to developing cavities long before he or she has eaten a first piece of candy. Two reasons why yound children can develop tooth decay are; firstly, children have much more sugar in their diets and second, children drink more bottled water, which usually does not contain fluoride.

More than a quarter of children from ages two to five have had decay in their baby teeth.

The Norfolk Department of Public Health is joining with the American Dental Association in observance of National Children's Dental Health Month to offer free dental screenings to children to assess whether any dental work is needed.

"Right now, the rate of dental care is actually increasing in the preschool group," said Michelle Galloway, DDS, a dentist with the Norfolk Health Department. "We want parents to know that they need to start early."

By early, she means a child should be seen by a dentist for the first time when they are one year old. Even with fluoride in the water, today's children still have tooth decay.

"Cavities are still prevalent," said Galloway. "They cause a lot of pain and discomfort. If not treated, they can lead to dentail infections that are very serious."

To prevent tooth decay, you should brush your baby's teeth and wipe their mouths. Toddlers should brush once a day, and school-aged children twice a day.

Screening Information:

Little Creek Center, 207 E. Little Creek Road in Norfolk

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday in February from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Screenings are available by appointment only

Call (757) 531-2133 to schedule an appointment.