LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim February 2016, as Children's Dental Health Month in the State
of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Children's
Dental Health Month

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official
months that are set aside to increase awareness of serious issues that
affect the lives of citizens of New York State and across the Nation;
and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorial-
ize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 2016, as Children's
Dental Health Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with the
observance of National Children's Dental Health Month; and
WHEREAS, This year's National Children's Dental Health Month campaign
slogan is "Sugar Wars"; and
WHEREAS, National Children's Dental Health Month mission is to raise
awareness about the importance of oral health; this month-long national
health observance brings together thousands of dedicated dental profes-
sionals, healthcare providers, and educators to promote the benefits of
good oral health to children, their caregivers, teachers and many
others; and
WHEREAS, Reports show that American students miss 51 million hours of
school every year because of oral health problems; students who are
absent miss critical instruction time, especially in early grades where
reading skills are an important focus and the building blocks of future
learning; and
WHEREAS, Students who have experienced recent oral health pain are
four times more likely to have lower grade point averages than their
counterparts who have not; and
WHEREAS, Despite the fact that it is almost entirely preventable,
tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children; there are
safe and effective preventive measures that can protect teeth; good oral
hygiene practices such as thorough brushing with a fluoride toothpaste
can help keep children from getting cavities; and
WHEREAS, In addition, dental sealants and community water fluoridation
are two other strategies that can help prevent tooth decay; and
WHEREAS, According to the American Dental Association, along with the
ADA Foundation, it is imperative that there be greater public awareness
of this serious health issue, and more must be done to increase activity
at the local, State and national levels; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 2016, as Chil-
dren's Dental Health Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with
the observance of National Children's Dental Health Month; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.