Dental Health

C.I.N.O.T. Community Dental Screenings Parent Information School Based Dental Programs Teacher Resources

1. Dental Screening
   Health Unit dental staff delivers the screening program to students in selected grades in elementary schools.  It entails a brief visual assessment of the child’s dental condition.  The main objective of the program is to collect information on the rate of dental disease in area students so that dental programs may be implemented or adjusted to meet changing population needs.  A second objective is to identify those children who appear to need dental work and notify their parents or guardians.  School screening does not take the place of regular dental checkups.  A notice is sent home with each child well ahead informing parents of the screening date, giving parents enough time to inform the school or the Health Unit should they not want their children to take part in the program.
    
2. Access to Dental Care Program
   The CINOT (Children In Need Of Treatment) program provides financial assistance to families who have no dental insurance and would have difficulty paying for the dental treatment.  To qualify for CINOT, children must be 0-17 years of age and must be seen by a Health Unit dental hygienist prior to treatment.
    
3. Preventive Services
   Preventive services such as topical fluoride treatments, pit and fissure sealants, oral hygiene instruction and fluoride varnish will be offered to children who would benefit.  These services require a written consent and are free of charge.  The treatments are done in schools or at a predetermined location.
    
4. Resources for Loan/Advice to Professionals
   Dental staff also provides videos, pamphlets and other teacher resources.
   
   
5. Seniors
   A laminated fact sheet for dental care/dental overview has been distributed to nursing homes. Copies can be requested.