The dental health program helps eliminate preventable oral disease in young children.
Kindergarten dental screening occurs every three years for surveillance purposes and targeted kindergarten dental screening occurs every year. The next Kindergarten dental screening for surveillance will happen during the 2022-23 school year. The Kindergarten dental screening is a visual inspection that identifies problems that can interfere with health and learning. The dental screening is a quick check and is not the same as an examination by a dentist.
There are a number of programs that offer reduced cost dental care for school aged children including:
Dental Program at West Community Health Centre
Offers oral health prevention information and fluoride application for young children whose families are not able to afford private dental office visits. For more information call (604) 904-6200, extension 4159
BC Healthy Kids Program
Helps families on premium assistance with the costs of basic dental care and prescription eye wear.
Reduced-Cost Dental Services for Children on the North Shore
Occasionally, a student may experience a dental emergency while at school, such as a dental accident or severe toothache that requires immediate intervention. If the student does not have a dentist, please call the emergency department of your nearest hospital. For more information on how to handle a dental emergency.
Find a Dentist (BC Dental)
Guidelines for food and beverage sales in BC schools (HealthLink BC)
Make water your drink of choice (Canada.ca Food Guide)
Sip Smart BC (Healthy Schools BC)
Food Free Rewards (Appetite to Play)
Brushing and Flossing Brushing and Flossing (VCH)
Mouth Care for Children (VCH)