How Dental Hygienists Can Improve Oral Health for Head Start Participants
Find out how dental hygienists can work in partnership with Head Start programs to improve oral health for enrolled children and expectant families.
Oral Health
Tooth decay is the most common childhood disease, but it's preventable. Children with dental pain can have trouble speaking clearly, eating, and learning. Resources in this collection cover the health of the mouth including the teeth, gums, and oral-facial system that allows us to smile, speak, and chew.
These resources highlight some of the most common diseases that affect oral health, including tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer.
How Dentists Can Improve Oral Health for Head Start Participants
Learn how dentists can work in partnership with Head Start programs to improve oral health for enrolled children and expectant families.
How Medical Providers Can Help Improve Oral Health for Head Start Participants
See how medical providers like physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, and physician assistants can work in partnership with Head Start programs to improve oral health for enrolled children and expectant families.
Getting Oral Health Treatment Is Important!
If your child’s dentist finds tooth decay and recommends a follow-up dental visit for treatment, it’s important for your child to get care. Receiving follow-up treatment is key to keeping your child healthy.
Visiting the Dentist by Age 1
A dental visit by age 1 is key for building a lifetime of good oral health. Tooth decay can be prevented or managed with early dental visits and with good oral hygiene.
Getting to Know Me: Information for Your Dental Office While You Are Pregnant
Use this form to help pregnant women share important information about their pregnancy and oral health with dental office staff. It can help dental office staff best meet pregnant women’s oral health needs.
Getting to Know Me: Information for Your Child’s Dental Office
Parents can use this form to share information about their child with dental office staff to help them meet the child’s needs. Find questions about things that might bother the child about visiting the dentist.
Questions to Ask When Looking for a Dental Office
Finding a dental office that is best for you and your child can be hard. This Tips sheet provides examples of some questions that you can ask a dental office before you decide to make an appointment.
Finding a Dental Clinic for Your Child
Visiting the dental clinic keeps children’s teeth and mouth healthy. Learn about how to find a dental clinic and the importance of regular dental visits.
Sample provider letter
The Office of Head Start NCH oral health forms are important records of a pregnant woman’s or child’s dental visit.