Through the following components, the goal of the Dental Health Program is to educate and promote oral health.

Smile Keepers Program

The Smile Keepers Program targets high-risk schools, providing daily fluoride tablets and fluoride treatments, dental health education and a preventive regimen for preschool through sixth grade and special needs students, regardless of age. Teachers receive an initial workshop and annual update thereafter. Program staff provide in classroom educational lessons or a dental health fair for each participating class along with dental supplies - toothbrushes, toothbrush covers and dental floss. Preschools are also offered an annual parent meeting or a health fair. Additionally, annual screenings and referrals are coordinated among volunteer dentists, dental hygienists or by staff dental hygienists. Thirty-five percent of those screened in 2004-2005 presented with an obvious need for dental treatment. The #1 reason for referral from the California Health and Disability Program is dental cavities. The presence of dental decay can detrimentally affect speech, nutrition, self-esteem and general health. The ability to learn diminishes in a pain filled environment. Dental decay may have lifelong social and economic implications as well.

Dental Sealant Program

This is a school-based program that provides sealants to second, sixth and special education classes in high-risk elementary schools. Since the program was started in 1999, over 10,700 children were able to have sealants placed on their teeth through this service.

Case Management

Furnishes outside-provider claims management for Ryan White-Title I Dental Services.

Community Awareness and Resources

Parents, teachers, nurses, case workers, child care providers and the general public receive educational presentations relating to preventing baby bottle tooth decay; nutrition and dental health; brushing; flossing; use of fluoride and dental safety. Members of the community are provided information on access to care in the community.