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Efforts to Keep Kids From Getting Cavities Get a Boost
Efforts to protect Oregon's children from getting cavities are getting a boost this month as the state expands its capacity to deliver preventive sealants.
The help comes in the form of two portable dental sealant units that will supplement the school-based sealant program administered by the Oregon Department of Human Services Public Health Division.
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to children's molar teeth when they first appear as a protection against cavities. Nearly all tooth decay can be prevented when sealants are combined with fluoridation and other fluoride products such as toothpaste, according to Gordon Empey, state dental director in DHS.
"Sealants are an investment in a child's health," said Empey. "They protect against first cavities and against fillings, crowns, root canals and extractions that can occur later in life."
The sealant units will be used throughout the state, and dentists and dental hygienists around Oregon already have volunteered to help. Under a limited access permit, hygienists can apply sealants at specific locations such as public and non-profit community health clinics, schools and day cares where there is limited access to preventive dental services.
For the rest of this article visit the Oregon Department of Human Services, www.oregon.gov.
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