NNPHD's Oral Health Program provides dental care and education for all ages across Cedar, Dixon, Thurston, and Wayne counties.
About Our Oral Health Program
Good oral health is essential to overall health. Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood — and one of the most preventable. NNPHD's Oral Health Program brings dental services, education, and prevention directly to the people who need them most.
Our licensed Public Health Dental Hygienist and team visit schools, childcare centers, and assisted living facilities throughout our region to provide screenings, cleanings, and education at no cost to participants.
Services Provided
Dental Screenings
Visual dental exams to identify decay, gum disease, and other concerns — and referrals for further care.
Teeth Cleanings
Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup — a foundation of good oral health.
Fluoride Applications
Fluoride varnish strengthens enamel and prevents tooth decay, especially in children.
Dental Kits
Each participant receives a take-home kit with toothbrush, toothpaste, and instructions.
Oral Health Education
Age-appropriate classroom and community education on brushing, flossing, nutrition, and prevention.
Creating New Smiles
Program serving children ages 0–5 in preschools and childcare centers — no cost to families.
Creating New Smiles
Creating New Smiles is our early childhood oral health program. We partner with preschools, childcare centers, and families to provide oral health information and fluoride varnish applications to children ages 0–5. There is no cost to participating families.
Why age 0–5 matters: Baby teeth matter! They hold space for permanent teeth, help with speech and eating, and set lifelong oral health habits. Cavities in baby teeth can cause pain, infection, and trouble in school.
School Visits
Participating schools in our region receive two visits each school year. Each participating student is provided with:
- A dental screening to identify any concerns
- A professional teeth cleaning
- Fluoride varnish application
- A dental kit with toothbrush and toothpaste to take home
- Age-appropriate oral health education
All services are provided free to students and schools. Parental consent is required before any screening or treatment.
Assisted Living Visits
Oral health is important at every age. Our team visits assisted living facilities to provide dental screenings, oral hygiene instruction, and connections to dental care for residents. Contact us if you'd like to schedule a visit to your facility.
Partner with Us
Schools, childcare centers, and assisted living facilities in Cedar, Dixon, Thurston, and Wayne counties can partner with NNPHD to bring our Oral Health Program to their community.