Skip to main content
MENU
CLOSE

Brighter Smiles

Southeast District Health Department (SEDHD) and the area Public Schools have partnered together to bring dental health services to all students PreK-12th grade through our Brighter Smiles program.

A Registered Dental Hygienist will provide a superficial oral health screening and apply fluoride varnish, and sealants all which helps prevent tooth decay. For those children covered by Medicaid this service is free of charge; a $20.00 contribution is appreciated if your child is not covered by this program. However, if you are unable to contribute, your child will not be refused service.

This service does not take the place of regular checkups by your family dentist or daily brushing and flossing.  You are encouraged to have your child participate even if you have a family dentist.

  • All children who participate in this program will receive a FREE toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • A note will be sent home with your child showing the screening results.
  • All children who participate will get education on the importance of oral health from our Registered Dental Hygienist.

Commonly Asked Questions:

  • Q: We go to the dentist twice a year. Why participate in this program if they get regular check-ups?

    A: Great! We love hearing that kids are going to the dentist regularly. The fluoride varnish we apply can decrease cavity development by about 38% when applied 4 to 6 times a year. This is additional protection for your child?s teeth.

  • Q: How long before my child can eat normally after having fluoride varnish applied?

    A: Children can eat and drink as normal 5-10 minutes after applied.

  • Q: Is fluoride varnish safe?

    A: Fluoride varnish is safe. It is approved by the American Dental Association and the Federal Drug Administration.

  • Q: Does my child need sealants?

    A: Sealants are recommended for children ages 6-14. These are the most cavity prone years and are also when they start to get their permanent adult teeth. Sealants can be applied to children younger than 6, if they show that they are at high risk of dental needs.

Please fill out this form for EACH child that will be seen

IF YOU HAVE BEEN INSTRUCTED TO DO SO.

First Name
Last Name
Country
Address Line 1
Address Line 2
City
State
Postal Code
First Name
Last Name
First Name
Last Name
Would you like preventative services for this Child? Fluoride varnish can safely be applied 4-6 times a year and can decrease further cavity development by about 38%. Applying sealants can reduce decay by up to 80%. Both fluoride varnish and sealants are safe. They are both approved by the American Dental Association and the Federal Drug Administration.
Does your Children see a dentist two times a year?
Does your Child have Medicaid or CHIP? *All services are covered under Medicaid/CHIP
Does your Child have private insurance? * DATA question. Examples: BlueCrossBlueSheild, Etna, etc.
Select Service for 1st Child
Select Service for 2nd Child
A $20 contribution is suggested per child, but any amount is appreciated. No child will be turned away. Medicaid/CHIP participants all services are covered. Will you be contributing today?

Programs

COVID-19 Information

Learn More.

News & Events

Find out More.

Local Resources

Explore Resources.