The dental health program helps eliminate preventable oral disease in young children.
North Shore Children's Dentists
Getting Your Child Ready for School – Oral Health Tips
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 2021-22school 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.
Public health will send this letter to all kindergarten classes to inform parents of the screening date: Kindergarten Vision, Hearing, Dental Parent Guardian Letter 2018
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, read:Dental Emergencies – 2018
Find a Dentist - BC Dental
Dental Health Resources for Teachers - BC Dental
Healthy Eating For Schools and Communities
School Food and Beverage Sales - BC Gov
Sugary Drinks - Healthy Families BC
Sip Smart BC - Healthy Schools BC
Non-food Rewards for Young Children - VCH
Healthier Rewards – Secondary Schools and Community Programs - VCH
Brushing and Flossing Brushing and Flossing - VCH
Mouth Care for Children - VCH