Dental Screening
Our registered dental hygienists visit elementary schools and provide a quick check of students’ teeth. They let parents/guardians know if they see any problems, such as large cavities, in the child’s mouth. This screening does not replace an exam by a dentist.
- To opt in or be included in dental screening: If your child is not in one of the grades listed on the letter your child received from school, and you would like them to be screened, please complete the opt-in request form.
- To opt out or be excluded from dental screening: If your child is in one of the grades listed on the letter your child received from school, but you do not want them to be screened, please complete the opt-out request form.
Fluoride Varnish
Public Health is offering free fluoride varnish in all elementary schools to students in grades that are screened. Parents of children who had the dental screening at their school will receive information about the fluoride varnish program following the dental screening visit. If your child was not screened, you can still register your child to receive fluoride varnish for free by completing the online registration form.
What is fluoride varnish?
Fluoride varnish is a protective coating that makes teeth stronger and reduces cavity risk. A dental professional paints the fluoride varnish onto your child’s teeth with a small disposable brush (each brush is only used for one child). The fluoride varnish sticks to the tooth for a few hours and is absorbed into the surface of the tooth. This re-mineralizes the tooth and helps reduce cavities. The process is quick, painless and easy.
Why would I want my child to receive fluoride varnish?
- Cavities are the single most common chronic disease in children. Nearly 50% of children in Grade 2 in Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph have tooth decay.
- Cavities in baby teeth can cause pain and even prevent children from being able to eat, speak, sleep and learn properly. Cavities in baby teeth can also cause problems in adult teeth.
- Fluoride is not added to any municipal water supply in Wellington County, Dufferin County or the city of Guelph.
- Fluoride varnish has been shown to be effective and safe in many studies and research reviews. No common or serious side effects have been reported.