A dental screening
will be done by the hygienist to evaluate the child’s teeth, gums and oral
cavity for any areas of concern.
An oral prophylaxis (dental cleaning) will
be provided by the hygienist to remove plaque and tartar from the child’s
teeth.
If needed, dental sealants
will be applied to the child’s back teeth in the grooves. This material
helps to prevent decay by sealing out plaque and bacteria on the hard to clean
surfaces.
Fluoride varnish will be applied directly on the
child’s teeth with a small brush. Fluoride varnish provides a concentrated, temporary dose of
fluoride to the tooth surface. The varnish holds fluoride close to the tooth
surface for a longer period of time than other concentrated fluoride products. Fluoride
varnish is so safe that it can be used on babies from the time they have their
first teeth. It offers a
protective coating that helps prevent new cavities and helps stop present
cavities from further decay.
Oral hygiene education will be reviewed with each child to review
proper tooth brushing, flossing, and general oral health.
Toothbrush, toothpaste, & floss will be given to each child seen.
Oral health report forms will be prepared for each child seen. Copies will be given to the child’s
family and the appropriate personnel at their location. If any dental concerns
are identified, the school nurse will be notified and a phone call will be
placed to the child’s family by our hygienist.
All
children will be referred to their
dentist for routine exams and restorative work. Dental referrals will be
given to families who do not have a regular dentist.