RCCS teams up with Richland Public Health for Smile BIG Richland
October 26, 2020
Richland County Children Services (RCCS) is working with Richland Public Health to help brighten the smiles of Richland County youth.
Smile Big Richland is Richland Public Health’s Pediatric Dental Health Program. Through funding from the Richland County Foundation and donations from national and local organizations, the mission of the program is to educate and prevent the prevalence of tooth decay in youth between the ages of 0 to 18.
As part of the initiative youths will receive FREE dental health backpacks filled with toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, fluoride treatment (for ages 6 +) and age appropriate educational material and goodies.
Did you know that dental disease is the most common chronic illness for children in the U.S.? About 20% of children between the ages of 5 to 11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth. While dental disease is preventable, dental care is the most common unmet health need of children.
Here in Richland County, tooth decay is one of the most common untreated diseases and is the most common chronic disease seen in our community’s children. This is due to a lack of access to dental care as well as limited to no access of fluoridated water in certain Richland County communities.
When children do not see a dental healthcare provider or drink fluoridated water regularly, their chances of experiencing tooth decay and dental health issues increases significantly and can have negative effects on their overall oral health throughout their entire lifespan.
To participate in the program, complete the brief survey about your child’s dental health. Participants will also receive a follow up survey at the end of the month. Participation in the additional survey will earn you a FREE meal gift certificate to one of our local Richland County restaurants! For more information contact Health Educator Kashema Ginn, 419-774-4723 or email:kginn@richlandhealth.org.
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