June 4 is Cavity-Prevention Day in Japan. This is because six (June) can be pronounced mu and four shi; the Japanese word for a cavity is mu-shi-ba. Each year, the week-long period beginning on June 4 has been designated "dental hygiene week," and many campaigns are carried out by dental associations and the Health and Welfare Ministry to encourage people to take better care of their teeth. During the week, dentists and dental hygienists often visit schools to teach students how to keep their teeth clean and strong. The visitors also show slides and offer explanations in the auditorium or gymnasium of how cavities and other dental disorders develop. At the end of these sessions, students return to the classroom and are handed a fluid that shows how well one has brushed one's teeth. When the liquid is coated on one's teeth, the areas that have not been brushed show up in red. Students can practice brushing in front of a mirror until the red disappears. Seeing one's mouth turned bright red can be a big surprise, although it can also be quite an amusing sight. Even while having fun, though, kids can learn the importance of keeping their teeth clean. Some department stores turn into clinics during dental hygiene week, inviting dentists to offer free checkups and consultation. Some local governments honor kids who have taken particularly good care of their teeth. Photos: (Top) Kids learning about dental care; (above) students make posters to get into the spirit. (Aijitsu Elementary School, Shinjuku, Tokyo)

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