Dental Health Solutions For Children Resources

Page updated October 19, 2009

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History of Program

In 2000, a Salem-Keizer third grader was unable to concentrate in class due to a painful toothache.  He was sent to the office and was given ice to hold against his cheek.  His mother came for him, but being uninsured and struggling financially, her options were scarce.   Within hours, the boy's cheek was twice its normal size. 

Luckily a nearby dentist was available and agreed to provide free emergency treatment.  Upon extracting the infected tooth, the dentist reported that our young student would have most likely died within several days from the infection.  


Recognizing that dental disease can be fatal, the Salem-Keizer School District and local community took action.  With guidance from Stand for Children (a grass-roots child advocacy organization), agency leaders, school district personnel, community members, and local dental professionals formed the Dental Health Solutions for Children Committee.   In 2001, this Committee created and implemented a comprehensive dental health program.   

This program has a "three-pronged" approach:

  1. Dental Health Education
  2. Prevention Services
  3. Access to Treatment 

Our innovative approach maximizes our community stakeholder involvement, utilizes volunteer service, emphasizes coordination with existing organizations, and involves working with families to establish long term solutions to dental disease.  

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Committee Information
 

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Parent Education
 

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Student Education

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Dental Health Screenings 

  • Dental Screening Parent Note (identify immediate dental needs)
  • Dental Screening Result Form (identify immediate dental needs)

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Dental Sealant Project
 

Offered in select schools in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club Health Center.

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Access to Treatment

Neighborhood Dentist Program for immediate dental needs

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Medical Team International Dental Van for Dental Treatment

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Boys & Girls Club Health Center

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Tobacco Prevention

  • Educational Materials and Oral Cancer Screenings

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Low-cost Toothbrushes and Supplies Available to Order

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Donors

Programs are possible only because of support from financial and service donors

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Links

Click on the links below for information on dental health resources.

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Contact 

For more information, please call:

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