Healthy Smiles Start Here!
At the Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU), our dental team is dedicated to preventing dental problems and making it easier to get dental care. A healthy mouth is essential for overall well-being. It helps children to eat, to speak and to grow properly.
Healthy teeth and gums prevent pain, infection and other issues that can affect their overall health, confidence and school attendance. Starting good habits early sets the foundation for lifelong oral health.
Every child deserves a happy and healthy smile.
Prevention is Key
Tooth decay is preventable with awareness, early assessment and regular preventative care. We are committed to ensuring every child has access to proper dental services.
Free Preventive Dental Services
The MLHU offers FREE preventive oral health services for qualifying children under 18 years of age at our dental clinics in London and Strathroy.
Services include:
- Scaling – Removes soft or hard deposits on teeth
- Polishing – Helps to remove surface stains
- Fluoride varnish – Strengthens tooth enamel and helps to prevent tooth decay
- Sealants – Protects deep grooves in permanent teeth from cavities
- Oral hygiene instruction – Teaches and reinforces healthy dental habits
School and Childcare Screenings
Each year, our dental staff visit schools and a selection of childcare centres to provide free dental screening. These quick, “no-touch” peeks help to identify cavities or other oral health concerns early. They also help children feel more comfortable with dental visits. If a child is found to have an urgent oral health concern, a dental hygienist will support the family to ensure the child receives the necessary treatment. Hygienists can also assist families in applying for Healthy Smiles Ontario emergency coverage to ease any financial concerns.
Emergency Dental Support
For children in urgent need of dental treatment, MLHU offers support through the Emergency and Essential Services Stream (EESS). After a quick assessment by the registered dental hygienist, eligible families can enroll in the Heathy Smile Ontario (HSO) program to help cover treatment costs.
Why Fluoride Matters
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in soil, water and food. Research shows that an optimal level of 0.7mg/L in drinking water prevents tooth decay. Since Middlesex County does not have a water fluoridation system, professional fluoride treatments and fluoridated toothpaste are recommended.
Want to learn more?
Call us at 519-663-5317 and ask to speak to a member of the Oral Health Team.
References:
- McDonagh & al. (2000). A Systematic Review of Water Fluoridation. NHS Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University York. September 2000. 102p.
- Rugg-Gunn. AJ & Do, L. (2012). Effectiveness of water fluoridation in caries prevention. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol. 2012 Oct; 40 suppl. 2:55-64.
- Government of Canada. (2018). Fact sheet – Community water fluoridation. Retrieved from: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/health/publications/healthy-living/fluoride-factsheet.html
Submitted by Vijayasri Rajaganesh, Dental Assistant on the Oral Health and Clinical Support Services Team
