For Educators

Tooth Brushing Program

One of the best ways for children to keep their teeth and mouths healthy is at day care or school. The goal of a daily tooth brushing program is to reduce dental disease, and promote good oral habits that will last a lifetime.

Daily tooth brushing will benefit children by teaching that healthy teeth and gums are essential for proper chewing, speech and appearance. This will lead to improved diet, self-esteem and overall health.

Day cares and schools that participate in this program will have a daily supervised tooth brushing activity that teaches good oral hygiene and prevents the transfer of harmful bacteria between children, toothbrushes and toothpaste.

All day cares and schools should have a designated lead person responsible for the supervision of the daily tooth brushing program. Dental support and guidance is available through Dental Programs and Services, a division of the Department of Health.

 

Dental Health Manual

This Dental Health Manual was created for use during Nutrition Month (March) and Dental Health Month (April) observed annually in Canada. These educational resources and activities are to assist teachers, parents and public health professionals to support the healthy development of children and youth.

 

 

 

 

 

Teaching Teeth

These “teaching teeth” can be used in a number of settings. Use them in school or day care demonstrations, maternal health and well-baby visits, caregiver and tots groups, or pre-natal nutrition programs. The displays can be used in a group or individual setting to best fit the needs of the community.

Additional information is provided as tips and techniques for oral care.