February is National Children's Dental Health month

CHICAGO (WLS) -- It's the perfect time to talk to your kids about saving their teeth! February is National Children's Dental Health Month.

Tooth decay is one of the top chronic infectious diseases among children in the U.S. About 60 percent of children will have had tooth decay at some point by age 5. More than 50 million school hours are missed every year by school-aged children in the U.S. due to dental visits or problems.

Parents and caregivers should make sure they set a game plan to help their child develop healthy oral health habits early. As soon as a tooth appears, start brushing twice a day and begin flossing once two teeth touch.

Dr. Mira Albert, DDS, dropped by ABC 7's State Street studios to give tips on keeping young teeth healthy and clean.