Dental Information, Support and Prevention for Families with Infant/Preschool Aged Children
Even though tooth decay is preventable, 30% of children in the Capital Region have experienced tooth decay by the time they reach kindergarten. Tooth decay can affect the child's ability to eat, sleep, talk and socialize. Dental treatment also has a financial impact on the family and challenges the health care system by being the most common surgical procedure for children in BC hospitals.
The purpose of the Smiles First program is to prevent or reduce the risk of early childhood tooth decay in infants/preschoolers by:
- Supporting pregnant women and families with newborn babies to attain good oral health. This reduces the number of decay-causing bacteria passed on to their infants.
- Increasing parents' awareness, knowledge and skills about taking care of their own and their children's oral health.
- Providing a non-threatening introduction to dental services for pregnant women and families.
Clients can book an appointment with the Smiles First Dental Hygienist, or can be directly referred by a Public Health Nurse or other health professional. The Public Health Nurse can also offer information on basic dental care for children.
Smiles First Dental Hygienist consultations are booked at 5 health units, one week per month, with time put aside to accommodate both appointments and drop-ins. Consultations are also offered at some community locations. Services offered by Dental Hygienists vary according to the age and needs of the client. It may include a visual oral assessment, discussion of mouth care methods, feeding habits that impact dental health, fluoride use, as well as support for accessing dental treatment. Children at risk for tooth decay may also be offered fluoride varnish preventive treatment.
For locations, days of the week and times of Smiles First sessions, see the Smiles First Timetable (PDF) or call the Dental Program at 250-519-5100.
For more information on Smiles First, talk to your Public Health Nurse, call your local health unit or call the Dental Program at 250-519-5100.