Volunteers are needed for our next Project Saving Smiles initiative will be taking place the week of Nov. 9- 13, 2015. Through this program, we provide second graders with free dental screenings, dental sealants, fluoride varnishes and oral health education to reduce the prevalence of tooth decay.
The 2001 Dental Needs Assessment in Harris County revealed 45.9% of 2nd graders had untreated decay. It is known that children who suffer from oral health problems cannot learn well and miss days from school. According to the 2000 Surgeon General’s Report, more than 51 million school hours are lost each year due to dental-related illness. Additionally, children who experience pain from tooth problems are likely to be distracted and unable to concentrate on their school work.
Since 2001, Project Saving Smiles has provided 12,295 dental screenings, 38,090 dental sealants, 12,129 fluoride varnishes and oral health education free of charge, to second graders enrolled in a free or reduced lunch program across Houston.
* Lunch will be provided for volunteers
If you should have any questions, please feel free to contact me on my cell phone 832-654-5946.
Best regards,
Cyd
