MO Healthy Smiles

Independence Missouri Public Schools Increase Number of Student Involvement with PSP

The Independence Missouri Public School District uses the Preventive Services Program (PSP) to encourage good oral health habits in 17 elementary schools with Kindergarten - 5^thgrade students by providing an oral screening, two fluoride varnish applications, oral health instruction and a free toothbrush & toothpaste. Independence Public Schools became involved with the PSP during the 2007-2008 school year and had great success with student participation. However, this 2008-2009 school year showed an increase of student participation by over 25% of those receiving oral screenings and  a 33% increase of children receiving oral screenings and two fluoride varnish applications.

These increases in participation for 2008-2009 represents  a total of 6,020 children receiving oral screenings and 3,756 receiving oral screenings and 2 fluoride varnish applications. Twenty-five local dentists and dental hygienists helped with oral screenings and Independence School District staff assisted with the oral education and fluoride varnish applications. The PSP has been well received and supported by many in the community of Independence Missouri. The city of Independence does not have public fluoridated water, thus the preventative aspects of the PSP with 2 applications of fluoride varnish can be of great benefit to many children.

Lafayette County Health Department Saving Smiles Program Serves 1,689 Children

Lafayette County Health Department, in partnership with the DHSS Preventive Services Program (PSP) creates big numbers with their Saving Smiles Program. Lafayette Health Department created the name" Saving Smiles" to represent the PSP for their community. During the 2008-2009 school year, 8 schools in Lafayette County participated in the PSP/Saving Smiles Program. Over 1,689 children received an oral screening, two fluoride varnish applications, oral health instruction and a free toothbrush & toothpaste. The amount of children participating in Saving Smiles shows a 70% involvement of children from these 8 schools. Eight local dental professionals helped with the oral screenings, 43 student and parent volunteers and many Lafayette County Health Department employees assisted with the oral education and fluoride varnish applications.

 

 

 

PLAN EARLY FOR THE 2009-2010 SCHOOL YEAR

  Due to limitations in resources and funds, the Oral Health Program is encouraging schools and communities to prepare early for the coming school year.  Over 35,000 children partiticipated in the program during the 2008-2009 school year.  We anticipate doubling that number next year.

Please set dates now for screening and varnish events and contact your Oral Health Consultant for supplies. (See "Find a Consultant" button at left).  December 1, 2009 is the deadline for activating participation in PSP.  Anyone requesting supplies and assistance after that time will be accommodated in the 2010-2011 school year.

Thank you being a supporter of PSP and promoting the oral health of the children in your community.