The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the recognized leader in children’s oral health, today unveiled its new tagline, “America’s Pediatric Dentists, The Big Authority on Little Teeth,” targeted to the lay public. This new consumer branding campaign is an effort to better connect with parents and caregivers and educate them on the critical need for early check-ups and regular oral care for children.

**Tooth decay is the number one chronic infectious disease among children in the United States (and Canada!), affecting 42 percent of children aged 2 to 11 years. Furthermore, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-fourth of U.S. children age 2 to 5 have tooth decay. If left untreated, tooth decay causes pain and infections that may lead to problems such as eating, speaking, playing and learning.

“America’s pediatric dentists are uniquely trained to address the important oral health issues that children face,” said Dr. Warren A. Brill, pediatric dentist and AAPD president. “Between the epidemic of dental disease among children and the significant changes to dental coverage under healthcare reform, parents and caregivers need an authoritative resource to help them navigate these critical issues related to the health and well-being of children.”

The new branding includes the unchanged AAPD logo mark paired with a new tagline that reflects the approachability, care and expertise of pediatric dentists.

Dr. Jen cannot emphasize enough the importance of early visits to the dentist – by first tooth or first birthday – so that we can work together to help your children have healthy mouths for life!