Creating an Oral Health Education Program for Schools

Oral Health Challenges in Schools

Early childhood caries (ECC) are the most common chronic childhood disease in the United States. Left untreated, tooth decay can have severe consequences on a child's ability to eat, sleep, speak, play, and learn. There are persistent disparities in oral health, and many children, especially those from low-income families, lack access to proper dental care. American students miss over 51 million hours of school each year due to oral health problems. Tooth decay is far more prevalent than childhood obesity, asthma, and diabetes.

The Importance of School-Based Oral Health Programs

School-based models can provide essential oral health services for students, parents, and school staff. These include promotion of healthy school nutrition, oral screenings, comprehensive dental care, and identification of a dental home. The AAP oral health risk assessment tool can assist in screening and referral. One full-time professional school nurse in every school and support for school-based health centers are crucial. Pediatricians also play a significant role in collaborating with school nurses to improve the health and academic achievement of students.

Resources and Tools for Oral Health Education

There are numerous resources available to aid in creating an oral health education program. The Smiles For Life curriculum, the Partnership for Integrating Oral Health Care into Primary Care Project, the Community Preventive Services Task Force guide, and various reports and toolkits provide valuable information and strategies. Websites like Healthychildren.org, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and CDC Children's offer useful oral health information for families.

Best Practices and Approaches

Best practice approaches for state and community oral health programs involve a public health strategy, assessment of evidence, and use of practice examples. Screening programs help identify dental issues, and prevention programs such as sealant and fluoride treatments offer protection. Restorations are necessary for children from low-income families. Educating stakeholders and community members on the importance of oral health is essential, and establishing dental screening programs in schools can help highlight the need for better services.

Additional Information and Resources

Several other resources and initiatives contribute to improving oral health in schools. These include fluoride guidelines, WIC programs, online training modules like Open Wide, and the Oral Health Resource Bulletin. Various checklists, guides, and FAQs also provide support for implementing successful oral health programs in school-based settings.