The children of Cascade County are assured optimum oral health care through preventative dental education, screening, and treatment. All public elementary schools, two parochial schools, and four Hutterite Colonies are included in the program.
About the Program
Oral health education is an essential part of the total health education process. During the 2011 to 2012 school year 1,951 second and fourth grade students participated in a program that promoted preventative measures through daily tooth brushing, flossing, mouth rinses, and following a health diet. The Cascade City-County Health Department (CCHD) provided each student with a toothbrush and cover, toothpaste, and floss. Safety is emphasized by promoting mouth guards during sports, age appropriate car seats, seat belts, and tobacco free lifestyles.
During National Dental Health Month in February, the Cascade County Oral Health Educator worked with the Dental Assistant students from the MSU School of Technology to present brush-in presentations to all of the Kindergarten students in Cascade County. An oral health lesson was presented at the Great Falls Public Library and the St. Thomas Child and Family Center. CCHD furnished each students with a toothbrush and toothpaste. A total of 1,226 children benefited from this program.
Dental Screenings
Dental screenings, based on a visual screening provided by local dentists, are provided for all first, third, and fifth grade students in the County. During the 2011 to 2012 school year, 19 dentists visited 31 schools and screened 2,706 students. Through the data collected, 196 children were classified as a Class One, indicating that they need immediate care. Through a group effort between CCHD, the Fourth District Dental Society, and the Great Falls School District, 15 children received dental care through the "Give Kids a Smile" program.
Helpful Resources
For more information on our Oral Health Education program, please call 406-454-6950.