March 15, 2009
Kelly Lincoln was last year's Smile Alaska Style winnter.
Still Smilin’ After All These Years
Dental disease prevention campaign now in it’s 20th year
“North to the future” is Alaska’s motto, and a public dental education program in the southwestern corner of the state is helping to point the way to a healthy dental future for Alaskan Natives.
“Smile Alaska Style” has brightened smiles and increased awareness of dental health among residents living in dozens of villages in southwestern Alaska.
Each March at the Camai Dance Festival for the past 20 years, Alaskan Natives in the YK Delta region have been invited to dress in Native clothing, undergo a free dental screening and take part in a smile contest.
“Smile Alaska Style” is an independent program that is run separately from government dental programs. Area businesses supply the funds and prizes and media support comes from local newspapers and radio. The dentists, hygienists and assistants volunteer their time for this event.
The goal of “Smile Alaska Style” is to help native Alaskans prevent dental problems by teaching them about nutrition, sealants and good oral hygiene habits.
Smile Alaska Style 2009 Saturday, March 28 at Cama-i Dance Festival Bethel Regional High School — Noon – 3 p.m.
