Nevada County Public Health partnered with First 5 Nevada County and two dentists, Dr. Robinson and Dr. White, to bring oral health to First 5’s Step Up to Kindergarten program. Soon-to-be Kindergarteners participating in First 5’s Step Up to Kindergarten program were visited by these two local dentists during their 2nd week of the summer program. The volunteer dentists conducted oral health screenings and offered fluoride varnish. These screenings were made possible through the strong partnership between the Nevada County Oral Health Program, Dr. Robinson, and First 5 Nevada County.
First 5’s vision is that Nevada County children “will enter school healthy and ready to learn.” Staff from the Public Health’s oral health program provided education to students about best practices in oral hygiene and what to expect from their school dental screenings. Students were excited to practice brushing teeth and flossing on the program’s oral health mascot, the charming Flossisaurus – a large dinosaur puppet with a terrific set of teeth!
The Nevada County Oral Health Program encourages families with small children to introduce their child to the dentist at an early age. The American Dental Association recommends that all children visit the dentist by their first tooth or first birthday, whichever comes first. This early introduction to the dentist, and encouragement of good oral health habits at a young age, lead to continued focus on a healthy smile and optimal overall health throughout the child’s life.
For more information about Nevada County’s Oral Health Program, contact Tara Crim at (530) 470-2561 or tara.crim@co.nevada.ca.us.
