February is Children's Dental Health month.

BookPal wants to help dentists everywhere encourage dental hygiene. Dental health is a daunting topic to tackle with kids, but there are many things you can do to get your kids excited about keeping their teeth healthy. Here are three things you can do to get kids excited about visiting the dentist:

Step #1: Show Kids the Tricks of the Trade

The first step to overcoming any fear is to learn more about what you're fearful of — after all, knowledge is power! Remember, kids know absolutely nothing about dental tools, so it's important to take the time to introduce them to every device. The more they understand, the less intimidated they'll be.

Step #2: Have a Kid-friendly Environment

Why do kids always want to go to McDonald's, Chuck-E-Cheese and Disneyland? Because all of these places are filled with fun activities, colorful surroundings and other happy kids. Transform your dental office by offering activities for kids in the waiting room, and hang up photos of smiling kids and cartoon teeth. This positive atmosphere will make kids feel less nervous and help kids see the office as a friendly environment.

Step #3: End Every Visit on a Positive Note

Send kids away with a goodie bag filled with tools that encourage dental health. Traditionally, dentists have given away obvious dental tools (a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss), but have you ever thought about giving kids a book? Children's books about dental health are not only entertaining, but educational as well. The more they know about oral hygiene and the dentist, the less intimidated they'll be the next time they visit! Plus, a book lasts a whole lot longer than a tube of toothpaste.

Celebrate Children's Dental Health Month and browse our children's health Pinterest board or bookshelf to find titles that will teach your youngest patients all about dental health. Happy brushing!