An organization that promotes good dental health recently traveled to two Texas County school districts.
Delta Dental of Missouri’s “Land of Smiles” recently traveled to Raymondville School and Plato Elementary School.
This winter and spring, the touring education program will engage more than 30,000 kids at more than 150 schools across the state. The interactive show — featuring a superhero and sidekicks — teaches students how to prevent tooth decay and about the importance of brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, eating healthy foods and visiting the dentist regularly.
“Students show an average of 34% improvement in good oral health behavior and knowledge after seeing a performance, according to our pre- and post-show survey results,” said Stacy Harris, supervisor of community outreach at Delta Dental of Missouri. “This is a very positive outcome as good dental habits developed at a young age lead to lifelong healthy smiles.”
Offered at no cost by Delta Dental of Missouri, the program reaches many high-need schools, where more than 40% have at least 70% of students enrolled in free- and reduced-lunch programs.