Over 67% of Texas 3rd graders have experienced tooth decay. Tooth decay is the single most common chronic childhood disease, but the good news is that it is preventable. Smiles in Schools is a school-based program to help prevent cavities and keep kids healthy.
What is Texas Department of State Health Services doing about this?
DSHS works with schools and preschools to set up school-based oral health prevention clinics on campus. The clinics provide services to students from vulnerable populations who are less likely than other students to receive oral health care from dentists in private practice The goal of the clinics is to help prevent cavities, educate students, and to collect oral health data.
What services are available?
- Dental screenings
- Dental sealants
- Fluoride varnish
- Oral health education
Who provides this service?
Five Regional Dental teams throughout Texas provide services. These teams work with the school nurse or administrator to coordinate the clinic. Check the Regional-Dental-Team-Contact for the team in your area.