March 15, 2004
Hygienist Bob Ward takes a look.
Teeth Sealed at Bethel Schools
February was National Children's Dental Health Month. To celebrate, the Dental Disease Prevention Program at YKHC teamed up with the staff at Mikelnguut Elitnaurviat and Ayaprun Elitnaurvik Elementary schools in Bethel to provide dental screenings and sealants for first graders.
A dental sealant is a plastic-like material that is placed on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to fill in the grooves that trap plaque and create a smooth surface that is easier to keep clean.
This age group was selected because their first permanent molars have recently come in, and the sooner a sealant is placed the less chance there is of decay. Sealants have a lifetime of perhaps three to five years or longer. This is a painless procedure that the children tolerate well.
The children received brushing instructions and all were given a new toothbrush, fluoride tooth paste, stickers, and special pencils.
A special thank you to Principals Larry Ctibor and Agatha John Shields, secretary Kathleen Naneng, School nurse Grace Haas, P-E teacher Mike Lucas and the rest of the staff at M-E Elementary School for making this event a success. 196 sealants were placed for 63 children. Thanks to the dental staff from YKHC Dental Department: Dr. Mary Williard; dental hygienists Rong Li and Bob Ward; and dental assistants Margaret Charles, David Dock, and Dalarie Peters.