CAMP HUMPHREYS, Republic of Korea - For some children, the thought of seeing the dentist may be frightening, but others may look forward to the experience.
Seth Kennebeck, 9, son of Col. Christopher A. Kennebeck, staff judge advocate, 2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S. Combined Division enjoys trips to the dentist.
"I'm never afraid of the dentist," said Seth. "I actually like going."
Seth and other 2ID/RUCD dependents are seen at the Carius Dental Clinic at U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys.
Lt. Col. Min Kim, 618th Dental Company, 65th Medical Brigade and Pittsburg, Philadelphia native, is one of two pediatric dentists here. He encourages parents to take their kids for regular checkups.
"Oral health starts at age zero," said Kim. "Once the child's teeth start to come in, parents should schedule a dental appointment."
In honor of National Children's Dental Health Month, dental practitioners with 618th Dental Co., 65th Medical Brigade are doing all they can to promote oral healthcare for children.
"We have gone out to both the schools here and demonstrated techniques for children to take care of their teeth throughout the month," said Kim.
He recommends kids brush twice a day and encourages parents to supervise to ensure it's done properly.
"If the child can tie their shoes, then they have the dexterity to brush their teeth," said Kim. "If your child still needs help with tying their shoelaces, you should watch them to ensure they are brushing every tooth."
In addition to the dental screenings conducted earlier this month at the schools, students at Humphreys West Elementary School and Humphreys Central Elementary School are scheduled to visit Kim at the clinic.
"Next week students from both schools will come to the Carius Dental Clinic to gain exposure to what the dental clinic looks like and know what to expect when visiting the dentist," said Sgt. 1st Class Monique Jones, platoon sergeant, 618th Dental Co., 65th Medical Brigade and New York City, New York native.
Alicia Kennebeck, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma native, mother of Seth and wife of Col. Kennebeck, reacted to the dental clinic's hands-on and expeditionary approach to raising awareness about the importance of oral hygiene among our younger population.
"I was very impressed that dentists came out to the schools to spread the word about dental hygiene for kids," said Alicia. "It helps to reinforce what we teach Seth at home."
As the 63rd NCDHM comes to an end, Kim and the team at Carius Dental Clinic hope they made a lasting impact for children throughout USAG-Humphreys.
"My hope is that the kids will retain most of the tips and techniques we've shown them throughout the month," Kim said.
To schedule a dental screening for your child, please call Carius Dental Clinic at DSN 737-9291/2 for a space-available appointment. If you are not eligible for treatment at a military facility, a referral list of English-speaking Korean dentists is available at the clinic reception desk.
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