By Jamie McGrogan
One year ago, 100 children from Bryan Elementary School had lots to smile about. The Suncoast Community Health Centers, dentists and volunteers had provided dental care to these children who needed it the most. Dental-health providers are taking a step back from political aspects of service by giving of their time and talent in their local communities.
Another compassionate act of service was noted in February, in Hillsborough County. A local dentist and staff had provided dental services to about 300 people. Moreover, internationally, volunteers have served 80,000 individuals with dental care. These selfless acts of giving should not go unnoticed.
The benefit of dental-health awareness is the prevention of future dental diseases among children. We can provide the essentials for our children, but we need more offered within our communities and schools relating to dental hygiene. For example, educating the whole family about primary dental care and cost-effective tips to purchasing the right dental products are the first steps to a brighter smile. Some people cannot afford to spend $50 for a spinning toothbrush, when the $1 toothbrush is just as effective. The importance of flossing helps reduce the buildup of plaque between the teeth that, over time, leads to tooth decay. Be smart: Teach your little ones how to floss those teeth. Let’s work on giving our children something to smile about — no more toothaches or missing teeth but a wider smile.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Healthy People 2020 program strives to promote healthy behaviors and increase oral health. Many Americans with low socioeconomic status are unable to access dental care. The U.S. Census Bureau 2012 reports, the population of Plant City to be 35,903. The two largest minority groups are identified as Hispanic or Latino, at 28.8 percent, and black or African-American, at 15.1 percent. Plant City, compared to Florida, has a higher poverty level, 18.3 percent versus 15.6 percent. This is a about a 15 percent increase in the poverty rate.
Even though Americans may now have health insurance through the Affordable Care Act — whether through Medicaid, CHIP, SCHIP, Kidcare, Healthy Start or private market insurance including dental coverage — parents cannot afford to take their children or child to the dentist. One day of lost work can cost a family a day’s wages.
About 25 percent of the children in the United States ages 2 to 5 and 12 to 15 years suffer from tooth decay. According to the 2010 census reports, 15.6 percent of children age 6 to 19 have untreated dental conditions. The United States Department of Health and Human Services report about 51 million school hours are lost to dental health-related conditions each year. Proactive steps to becoming healthier starts with acknowledging unhealthy habits and initiating healthy behaviors.
Dental health is a direct approach that will help guide you and your families to understand the basic principles of dental hygiene and cost effective measures that every family can afford. A list of local dentist and providers in your community can be found through your insurance provider.
Here in Plant City, we value the same dedication and commitment to serve the community demonstrated by the Suncoast Community Health Centers last year. The Migrant Education Program, Hope Center is in the process of coordinating a community health event later this year. Stay connected with your local community organizations and encourage dental health awareness within your communities and schools, because what you do today has a positive impact on the future. Smile for the love of the children and the difference you can make today.
Jamie McGrogan is a student at the University of Tampa. This column is part of the requirements for a Public Health & Policy course.
