Recorded presentation

mary h mcclean, RDH, Kimberlee D. Wyche, MD, MPH, and Michelle P Vaughan, DDS. Metro Public Health Department, Metro Public Health Department, 1015 East Trinity Lane, Nashville, TN 37216, 615-862-6727, mary.mcclean@nashville.gov

OBJECTIVE- Children need to learn appropriate information and techniques for home care of their teeth in order to prevent painful, costly oral disease. This program teaches and inspires young children using a socially acceptable and familiar American icon, the Tooth Fairy. METHOD- Dressed in a flashy formal gown with a magic wand the tooth fairy introduces herself as one of the many “Tooth Fairies” whose wings only come out “when the sun goes down”. A large format book is used to address aspects of proper oral hygiene and nutrition. A hand puppet with teeth demonstrates proper oral hygiene techniques. Safety issues are addressed: not playing with toys in your mouth, listening to teachers and parents to learn rules and telling the truth all the time. Audience participation includes dressing children in costumes representing teeth and a tongue. Demonstrating with an oversized toothbrush, rope as floss, and colored squares of felt representing plaque, the children are shown how to: brush and floss the plaque away, prevent cavities, repair decay, protect teeth with sealants and avoid cancer of the tongue by not smoking. RESULTS- Approximately 55 locations are served yearly with education for 6000 children ages 4-7. Children learn by being inspired by the visualization of fantasy to pay more attention to their teeth. Imagination and humor break down language barriers. CONCLUSION – Programs are most effective in groups making it an excellent tool for public health. Objectives presented incorporate positive life long lessons children can learn from, identify with and practice.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this seesion the participant will be able to

• Describe alternative methods of oral health education.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of innovative educational strategies.
• Apply creative educational strategies in their communities.

Keywords: Oral Health,

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation