The Foleck Center joins dental practices nationwide in observing National Children's Dental Health Month this February 2026, an annual initiative by the American Dental Association that emphasizes the critical importance of establishing strong oral health habits during childhood. With recent data showing that 52 percent of children ages 6 to 8 have experienced dental caries in their primary teeth, the month-long observance highlights the urgent need for preventive dental care and early intervention.
The statistics paint a concerning picture of childhood oral health across the nation. Twenty-three percent of children ages 2 to 5 have at least one untreated cavity, while 57 percent of youth ages 12 to 19 have had cavities in their permanent teeth. Tooth decay remains four times more common than childhood asthma, causing children to miss over 34 million school hours annually due to dental problems.
"Many parents don't realize that the American Dental Association recommends bringing children for their first dental visit by age one or when their first tooth appears," said Dr. Adam Foleck, founder of The Foleck Center. "Establishing a dental home early creates a foundation for lifelong oral health. Baby teeth serve crucial roles in speech development, nutrition, and holding space for permanent teeth, yet many families wait until problems arise before seeking dental care."
The Foleck Center Hampton Kecoughtan Family Dentistry has long prioritized community education, providing interactive presentations and demonstrations on dental hygiene and oral health in local Hampton schools. These educational initiatives reach hundreds of children each year, teaching proper brushing and flossing techniques while making dental health engaging and accessible.
Preventive care remains the most effective strategy for protecting children's oral health. Fluoride treatments and dental sealants can prevent up to 80 percent of cavities when applied appropriately. Regular dental exams and cleanings allow for early detection and treatment of potential issues before they become painful or require more extensive intervention.
Hampton Kecoughtan Family Dentistry serves families throughout the Hampton Roads region, offering comprehensive dental services for patients from infancy through senior years. The practice provides general dentistry services including exams, cleanings, and fillings, alongside specialized pediatric dental care designed to create positive experiences for young patients. Additional services include restorative dentistry, orthodontics, and emergency dental care, ensuring families can receive all necessary dental treatments in one location.
The practice's approach to family dentistry emphasizes making dental visits comfortable and educational for children. By creating a welcoming environment and taking time to explain procedures in age-appropriate ways, dental professionals help children develop positive associations with oral healthcare that last into adulthood.
National Children's Dental Health Month serves as an important reminder that oral health affects overall health and academic success. Children with untreated dental problems often experience difficulty eating, speaking, and concentrating in school. Early intervention and consistent preventive care can eliminate these barriers while establishing habits that protect oral health throughout life.
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The Foleck Center operates multiple locations across Hampton Roads, including facilities in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Newport News, and Williamsburg, in addition to their Hampton Kecoughtan office at 3824 Kecoughtan Road. The practice features an in-house dental lab, advanced laser dentistry technology, and sedation options for anxious patients, demonstrating their commitment to accessible, comprehensive dental care for the entire community.
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For more information about The Foleck Center, contact the company here:
The Foleck Center
Dr. Adam Foleck
757 863 3968
info@thefoleckcenter.com
201 College Pl Suite 111,
Norfolk, VA 23510
