Media note: A photo opportunity will be available today at 3.45 pm today at Yeperenye School
Teachers at Yeperenya School in Alice Springs are learning good tooth-brushing techniques that they can use to encourage better oral health among their students.
Today's session is the latest of the Department of Health and Families Central Australia Oral Health Services tooth-brushing programs that have run in remote Central Australian schools around for over twenty years.
DHF Oral Health Promotion Officer Penny Brown said many schools in Central Australia are already running the program which helps the teachers to turn oral health into fun and involve students in this important activity.
"Running the programs in the classroom gives students the opportunity to clean their teeth every morning and provides a safe place to keep their own personal toothbrush and toothpaste," Ms Brown said.
"By showing the staff how to brush their own teeth and encouraging them to keep their own toothbrushes at school, they become role models for the children as well as instructors.
"Teachers should encourage class discussions about oral health and should use creative activities to teach students the healthy teeth message. Rather than saying scary things about dentists-even in a joking manner-they should help children to see the dentist as a friendly person who they can trust."
Free dental checks:
As Semester Three of the school year begins, Ms Brown also encouraged all Grade 12 students to take advantage of the free dental care offered by the DHF school dental service.
"Students who have received a Medicare Teen Dental Voucher can also use this for a free assessment at a private or government dentist.
"Make an appointment now by contacting the Flynn Drive Community Clinic's Dentist on 8951 6713," she said.
Some tips for tooth-brushing:
- Brush teeth at least twice a day for 3 minutes.
- Brush round and round, inside, outside and on the tops of the teeth.
- Brush where the teeth and gums meet
- The parents of children under 6-years should help their children clean their teeth using a low fluoride kids' toothpaste. Anyone over 6-years can use adult toothpaste.
Media contact: Cameron Jackson 0401 114 113
