Learn more. Here are some common questions about Healthy Teeth, Bright Futures.
Why do Oregon children need dental programs in their schools?
Preventive dental care is out of reach for many families. At the same time, many communities don’t have fluoride in their drinking water which helps kids prevent decay. Kids are not learning how to care for their teeth in school either. School-based dental programs make sure kids learn about oral health. They get screened and are connected to care to prevent painful cavities.
Who is most impacted by the lack of preventive dental care?
Oregon has one of the highest rates of childhood dental decay in the nation. About 49% of our kids have a cavity by age nine. About two of every five of those cavities will not be treated. Low-income children, kids of color, and children from rural communities are most impacted by a lack of dental care.
How do school-based programs work?
A dental hygienist visits a school and screens kids. They apply sealants and fluoride varnish. Give referrals for care, and toothbrushing supply kits. They connect kids in need of urgent care to a dentist to get care as soon as possible. School-based programs are a great way to prevent disease and get kids the care they need, at no cost to the families.
How does a coordinator help school-based dental programs succeed?
The most effective programs have a coordinator working closely with school personnel and dental professionals to make sure the maximum number of children participate in the program. Program coordinators ensure dental services are provided efficiently, and help families understand what the programs offer so all families can take advantage of the dental services.
What are the health risks for kids who can’t get preventive dental services?
Tooth decay is an infection that can spread through the body. It can cause fever, swelling, a quicker heart rate, and stomach pain. Kids in pain from infection have trouble sleeping and eating which makes it hard to learn in school. Dental disease affects overall health and development. It puts kids at risk for serious issues down the road like heart disease, diabetes and more.
How do dental programs in schools help Oregon families?
With consistent care, kids stay healthy, have less pain, eat better and can learn in school. They miss less school and parents take less time off work. The coordination provided within school-based dental programs ensures that families can connect to a local dentist who can give them consistent care. Preventive care also means families will have fewer expensive visits to the Emergency Room.
Who is supporting Healthy Teeth, Bright Futures?
This campaign builds on the work of the Oregon Children’s Dental Health Initiative that was launched in 2014 by Oregon Community Foundation. It is financially supported by the following: A-dec, The Collins Foundation, The Ford Family Foundation, Kaiser Permanente, Meyer Memorial Trust, Northwest Health Foundation, Providence Health & Services, and individual donors at the Oregon Community Foundation.