EL PASO, Texas – The City of El Paso Department of Public Health (DPH) is celebrating National Children’s Dental Health Month in February by reminding parents that oral health is vital to the overall health of their children.
This years’ theme, “Healthy Habits for Healthy Smiles” is bringing together thousands of dedicated professionals, healthcare providers, and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise that children who have poor oral health often miss more school and receive lower grades than children who don’t.
Untreated cavities can cause pain, infections, and can lead to problems eating, speaking, and learning. More than 1 in 5 children aged 2 to 5 years have at least one cavity in their baby teeth. Children from low-income families are more than twice as likely to have untreated cavities, compared with children from higher-income households. However, cavities are preventable.
DENTAL TIPS
Health officials advise parents that their children can avoid cavities and maintain healthy gums by following the tips below:
ensure to wipe your baby’s gums after each meal and avoid putting babies to bed with a bottle
brushing their teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
flossing between their teeth daily
eating a healthy diet that limits acidic and sugary snacks and beverages
seeing their dentist regularly – every six months
AVAILABLE SERVICES
City of El Paso residents with or without dental insurance are encouraged to schedule an appointment at the Department of Public Health’s Rawlings Dental Clinic at 3301 Pera Ave.
The clinic offers pediatric dental services to individuals 6 months to 21 years of age. The dental services available are as follows:
· comprehensive/initial dental exams
diagnostic x-rays
preventive treatment including cleanings, fluoride application, sealants, oral hygiene instructions with products provided
restorative treatment including fillings, pulpotomies, stainless steel crowns, space maintainers, root canal therapy and extractions
nutritional counseling
medical and dental specialty referrals as needed
FINANCIAL OPTIONS
Medicaid, CHIP and private insurance are accepted. Families without insurance may qualify for program assistance outlined below:
· family must reside in El Paso county;
· must provide proof of current address (Texas ID or utility bill);
· proof of relationship to the patient (patient’s birth certificate, legal guardianship, or Medicaid form);
· provide verification of most recent Gross Income for the household (3 check stubs, employer letter, social security, or SSI).
Patients without other resources may pay on a sliding-fee schedule based on family income.
Appointments for routine and emergency treatment are available.
For more information on qualifications or to schedule an appointment, please call (915) 212-8000.
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