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Oral Health

Oral Health and Your Overall Well-Being

Oral health is more than having a bright smile—it plays an important role in your overall health and quality of life. Good oral health means having healthy teeth, gums, and mouth that allow you to eat, speak, and live comfortably. Poor oral health, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and infections, can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even increase the risk of serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications.

Key Points for a Healthy Mouth:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

  • Floss daily to remove plaque and food between teeth.

  • Limit sugary drinks and snacks, which can cause cavities.

  • Visit a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

  • Avoid tobacco products, which increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.

  • Drink fluoridated water when available—it helps protect teeth.

By practicing good daily habits and seeking regular dental care, you can prevent many oral health problems before they start. Protecting your oral health helps protect your overall health and well-being.

Floss and Gloss is a program that provides preventative dental services in the school setting utilizing Public Health Registered Dental Hygienists. This program will provide dental assessment, cleaning, fluoride varnish, sealants (if applicable), silver diamine fluoride (if criteria are met), tele dentistry exam (if criteria are met), and oral health education including tobacco cessation. Floss and Gloss works closely with each schools Family Resource and Youth Services Center personnel. This program is working to help families find a dental office that they can consider their dental “home” and is NOT designed to replace your regular dentist.

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