MASON CITY, IA – Gov. Terry Branstad is taking steps to make sure the youngest of Iowans have a healthy smile.
The governor is declaring February Children's Dental Health Month.
The Iowa Dental Association says preventative care is the best way to ward off problems. Local dentists agree. They say when kids start good dental practices at a young age it sticks with them throughout their life.
“The Pediatric Association recommends a dental visit at one year of age and we really don't get a whole lot done other than just taking a look at things and desensitizing them to the dental environment,” said Dr. Jay Lala.
The IDA estimates even in rural areas like north Iowa more than 85 percent of Iowans live within five miles of a dentist.
