As students across Durham Region settle into their school-year routines, the Region is encouraging families to put oral health on the daily schedule alongside homework and lunch packing.
In a recent advisory, the Region of Durham said good oral health is an important part of a child's overall health and well-being. Healthy teeth and gums help children eat, speak, learn and feel their best, the Region noted.
The Region's advice centres on small, consistent habits. Children should brush their teeth twice a day — once before school and again at bedtime — and see a dentist regularly for checkups and preventive care throughout the year.
What parents can do at home
Parents and caregivers can support their children's oral health by packing nutritious foods in school lunches, the Region said. It also recommends encouraging kids to drink water during the day rather than sugary drinks.
Dental screenings coming to schools
The Region's Oral Health team will be visiting schools throughout the school year to provide dental screenings. The Region described these as quick visual assessments meant to identify children who may have oral health concerns.
When a concern is spotted, the team connects families with information, resources and follow-up care when needed, according to the Region.
Free dental care for eligible families
For families who need help accessing dental care, the Region highlighted Healthy Smiles Ontario, a program that provides free preventive, routine and emergency dental services for eligible children and youth aged 17 and younger.
More information about the Region's oral health services and the Healthy Smiles Ontario program is available at durham.ca/OralHealth. Residents can also reach the Region by calling 311 from within Durham.
