BEMIDJI — The Delta Dental of Minnesota Foundation recently kicked off its Smiles@School program which will provide more than 40,000 oral health backpacks and tools to first-graders across the state this week, including schools in the Bemidji area.
Each backpack contains a toothbrush, fluoridated toothpaste, an educational booklet and more. The Foundation will also provide teachers with an educational video on the importance of oral health.
“Establishing a strong oral health routine and healthy habits early is critical to preventive dental care for children and can set the stage for a lifetime of good oral and overall health,” pediatrician Eileen Crespo said in a release. “With the right information and tools, parents and caregivers can start their kids off on the right track for a healthy life and a healthy smile.”
Smiles@School is a statewide initiative funded by the Foundation to support children’s oral health through education and prevention. Smiles@School backpacks are assembled in partnership with Minnesota Diversified Industries, a nonprofit social enterprise business based in Minneapolis.
More information on the initiative can be found at www.deltadentalmn.org/smiles-at-school.
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