A group of dental students from the University of Minnesota came down to present about oral hygiene and answer any questions that the community members had. It was a great event! With over forty people in attendance we were able to divide up into two groups.
The kids were brought to the auditorium where they were taught all about brushing teeth, flossing, and eating the right foods for your teeth. But, it was about more than just that, it was about getting the kids engaged and excited about caring for their teeth, something that is often overlooked when dealing with health. Typically it also takes a back seat to physical health.
While sitting in on the adult presentation, I was given most of the same information that I had always heard growing up from my parents and the dentist but I thought, “where would I have learned this otherwise?” The answer to that question is that I probably wouldn’t have.
While schools and health class have the chance to inform students they have so many other topics they must cover, sexual education, drug and alcohol awareness, and so little funding that oral health often does not get covered.
As someone who is interested in healthcare it is great to see students involved in community outreach to inform those who were never educated about brushing teeth or to teach those who already knew quite a bit about oral health. Even I learned something new, drinking bottled water is not as good as drinking tap water, for your teeth.
I encourage everyone to attend informational outreach events like these, where young, enthusiastic, and educated students try to share what they know and help you take better care of your health, because there is always something new to learn!