Dental Wellness and Education Initiative in Communities
Delta Dental’s community outreach efforts focus largely on educating children about the importance of dental health. To do so, we offer engaging dental health presentations and resources to students and families at no cost. Nearly 200,000 people have benefited from these efforts across our Enterprise states to date.
We Have Some Help From a Friend: Ratoncito Pérez
To connect with the growing number of bicultural, bilingual children, the program features Ratoncito Pérez, the Hispanic counterpart to the Tooth Fairy. The legendary character visits schools to teach children in an entertaining way about the importance of oral hygiene and regular dentist visits.
Why Children’s Oral Health Education Matters
Delta Dental’s mission is to advance dental health and access, and educating children is key to its success. Poor dental health among children can cause severe pain, issues sleeping and problems in the classroom. In fact, children with poor oral health miss nearly three times more school than their counterparts, according to a study published in the American Journal of Public Health.
When we educate children about the importance of oral health, we’re helping to set them — and their families — up for a future of healthy habits. But it’s about more than creating healthy smiles. Because oral health can influence overall well-being, ultimately, these initiatives aim to improve health and enhance lives in the communities we serve.
Get in Touch
For more information about where we focus our initiatives or to request resources, please contact us at events@delta.org.