Press Release: Innovative Dental Care Program Enhances Oral Health for Nevada County Children
Deer Creek Elementary School recently hosted a vital dental care initiative for children from Transitional Kindergarten to third grade, providing necessary cleanings and addressing tooth decay issues that hinder learning. Health Education Coordinator Jamie Hanf emphasized the urgent need for affordable dental care in Nevada County, noting that tooth decay is a prevalent yet preventable health concern.
Nevada County’s Public Health team is tackling this challenge by conducting free dental screenings in schools, using a fully equipped mobile health van to reach hundreds of students. Their Local Oral Health Program, in collaboration with the Smile Nevada County coalition, prioritizes schools with the greatest need. Deer Creek’s Principal Robin Black praised the program’s proactive approach, which is not only about prevention but also about reducing school absences due to dental problems.
This initiative aligns with the state’s efforts to address the lack of dental providers for Medi-Cal recipients in rural areas. The program aims to pave the way for other counties, enhancing access through innovative mobile services and future telehealth initiatives. With rising incidences of tooth decay among children, this program is crucial to ensuring healthier futures and improving educational outcomes in Nevada County.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
