Education & Promotion Workforce
Dental disease is preventable, yet many people are unaware of the importance of, and how to maintain good oral health, as well as how to access treatment services. Based on the last strategic plan, a child-friendly oral health toolkit, Stella, was developed and disseminated in the County. The strategies in this plan continue this successful program, focusing on providing education where residents access other services, including primary care provider offices, early childhood settings, etc. Additionally, pediatric and pre-natal providers, and other PHS departments will be given information on how to integrate education about oral health in their work with patients and clients.
Meet Stella, San Joaquin County’s saber-toothed tiger with a big and healthy smile! Stella practices good dental habits every day to keep her teeth healthy. Watch her as she takes a trip to the dentist, download Stella’s Shiny Smile book to read along with a child, and find other smile-worthy activities at the links below!
Stella’s Shiny Smile: Storybook
Stella at the Stockton Library: Visual Story Time
Healthy Teeth, Happy Start:
Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment
Stella’s Activities
Good Things Come in 2’s:
Stella’s Poster
Tips for Healthy Smiles
There are many ways that you can care for your oral health
F is for Fluoride :
Natures Cavity Fighter! Fluoride varnish is a thick liquid that is brushed onto teeth. It’s safe for children and adults and helps protect teeth from harmful bacteria and decay.
Dental Visits:
Your child’s first dental visit should take place after that first tooth appears, but no later than their first birthday. Continue to go to the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.
Good Habits:
Practice good habits like brushing twice a day, flossing at least once daily, and using fluoride toothpaste, mouth rinses, or gels. Don’t forget to help your child brush and floss their teeth to make sure it is done right!
Habits to Avoid:
Avoid habits like using tobacco products, which stain your teeth, give you bad breath, and can cause cancer. Also, try to limit consumption of sugary foods and beverages.
For A Newborn:
Avoid putting baby to bed with a bottle, do not let liquids such as milk, formula, breast milk or fruit juice sit in a child’s mouth during naptime or bedtime because they can create cavities. Learn more about caring for your baby’s teeth here.
Eating Healthy!
Fruits and vegetables, along with a balanced food plan, are known to lower the risk of cavities and help keep your teeth healthy. Some helpful (and tasty) fruits and vegetables for your teeth include strawberries, oranges, celery, apples, pineapple, garlic, bananas, cucumbers, watermelon and carrots!