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DISTRICT
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Dental Society of Western Pennsylvania
To celebrate NCDHM, Drs. Alison King and Sarah LaRue visited schools to educate children on the importance of oral hygiene and healthy eating habits.
Dr. King went to four preschools and daycares in her area to provide educational presentations on preventative dentistry, basic hygiene and“ What to expect at the dentist office.” ADA’ s GKAS program supplied her with toothbrushes and toothpaste and she supplied two-minute timers that made up the items in goodie bags that she was able to give each child. She saw about 200 kids from ages two to five.
“ I love participating in NCDHM every February and helping the kids in our community feel comfortable going to the dentist,” Dr. King said.“ I enjoy hearing stories about how the kids will go home and teach their families and adults about proper two-minute brushing and flossing. My favorite book to read to the older kids is called Sugarbug Doug, written by a dentist, Dr. Ben Magleby.”
Dr. LaRue and her team visited five local elementary schools and presented to students from Pre-K to fifth grade. They discussed proper oral hygiene habits at home, the importance of routine and preventative dental checkups, how cavities develop and prevention strategies, sugar content in various drinks and snacks, and even a little about orthodontics.
The team used pillowcases to dress the students up as teeth and put stuffed food items( burgers, fries, pizza) in between their shoulders and had them floss with a jump rope. With the older students, they presented 3D printing demonstrations and showcased 3D printed dental models. Children who remembered the facts received prizes and the team made sure to get the little ones out of their chairs to do the floss dance.
“ Visiting the local schools gives the kids a chance to hear from us on the things we see and do in our practice. It gives them more confidence about their first dental visits,” Dr. LaRue said.“ We help to reinforce the importance of the healthy habits parents are working on at home. It’ s a privilege to be invited to share this experience with the children in my community each year- myself and my team always have fun with it too.”
We help to reinforce the importance of the healthy habits parents are working on at home.”
MAY / JUNE 2025 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL 27