The New York City Health Department has launched a new ad campaign to promote oral health for young children.
In New York City, more than 1 out of 3 third-graders have untreated caries, and 55% of third-graders have had a cavitated lesion, according to the health department.
The new campaign is designed to educate the public on the risk factors for tooth decay, and gives parents and caregivers of young children tips to help prevent tooth decay.
Health Commissioner Thomas Farley, MD, MPH, explained that many parents are not aware that common behaviors, such as putting a baby to sleep with a bottle or using one's mouth to wash off a pacifier can contribute to a child's tooth decay.
The ads will run in subways through the end of April.
