Interactive program teaches kids in Freeport about oral health

FREEPORT, Ill. (WIFR) - On Tuesday, Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation's 'Land of Smiles' landed at Empire Elementary School in Freeport.

The interactive show travels to schools across the state teaching children about oral hygiene, nutrition and regular dental checkups.

The free, interactive performance features characters like "Terri Tooth Fairy," "Toothpick" and "Captain Super Grin" as they battle their nemesis "Caz Cavity."

"Make sure you're brushing and flossing twice a day. That is the number one thing you can do to prevent tooth decay, as well as flossing and using mouth wash," said performer Wesley Harmon.

"You can always do it with your children as a connecting activity if you don't want me to visit your household! Make sure to do it morning and night," said performer Rachel Medina.

According to Harmon, the show is important for children, especially in Illinois.

In the state, around 22% of Illinois 3rd graders have untreated tooth decay and around 40% of Illinois elementary schools have had to miss school for dental-related issues.

Harmon adds tooth decay is a "100% avoidable issue."

Land of Smiles is reaching more than 30,500 pre-kindergartens through third grade students at 144 schools this spring.

Every student at a Land of Smiles performance receives a free oral health kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss, along with bilingual oral health tips outlining how students should care for their teeth.

For more information on the Land of Smiles program visit landofsmilesil.org [1].

References

^ https://www.landofsmilesil.org/ (www.landofsmilesil.org)