VIDEO: Delta Dental of Arizona funds oral health for families in need

Southwest Human Development hosted the second annual Healthy Families Picnic to celebrate a donation from Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation this month. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and in the name of oral health education, Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation generously donated $20,000 to Southwest Human Development to support oral health programs.

Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting oral health and prevent dental disease in children and youth through age 18, with a particular emphasis in underserved and uninsured communities. Thanks to its support, children and pregnant mothers in need who may not have access to proper preventative oral health measures will now have increased access to preventative oral care.

The Healthy Families Picnic welcomed dozens of parents and their children to explore best oral health practices. Young children received fluoride treatment and exams from dental professionals to kick start overall oral health and boost preventative care. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, studies have shown that water fluoridation can reduce the amount of decay in children’s teeth by 18-40%.

Dental professionals spoke with Healthy Families parents about the importance of brushing twice a day, limiting snacking and using proper oral care. The celebration included an oral exam, games and activities, and ended with a ceremony to honor Healthy Families program graduates.

The Oral Health Program for Children, Families and Expectant Mothers, which launched last year, is part of Southwest Human Development’s Healthy Families and Head Start/Early Head Start programs. Staff educate families on the benefits of good oral health for children using the Smiles for Life curriculum developed by the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine.

Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation’s commitment to providing oral health care access for all continues to make an impact in our community, and the lives of families in need.

Learn more about Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation’s oral health initiatives.