More than 51 million school hours are lost each year due to dental-related illnesses. From lost productivity to pain, poor oral health is a serious problem.
In 2007, a preventable tooth infection spread to the brain of a 12 year old Maryland boy, causing his death. Tooth decay and gum disease can also have long-term consequences for overall health, including heart disease to low birth-weight babies.
The problem is widespread and growing, the Centers for Disease Control in 2007 reported an increase in cavities among children age 2-5. We can do more to eradicate tooth decay for all children.
The ForsythKids Program offers dental care to thousands of at-risk children right in their elementary schools. Twice a year, Forsyth dentists and hygienists provide enrollees with a dental exam, tooth cleaning, toothbrush, toothpaste, and preventive care.
One of the most important thing ForsythKids take away from the school visits is the knowledge that taking care of their teeth now will lead to a healthier life in the future.
ForsythKids is addressing the oral health needs of children today and significantly improving the next generation's overall health and well-being, through education, prevention, treatment – and with a friendly smile.
