Helping students achieve good oral health

By Mary-Justine Lanyon

Making sure students’ teeth and gums are healthy is important for a number of reasons.

If a student has a deep cavity or an abscess, they are most likely in severe pain. Because of that pain, they cannot eat properly and are unable to get a good night’s sleep. The result: They can’t learn in school because they are tired and in pain.

In an effort to promote good oral health, volunteers from HAFDRA (Humanitarian Aid for Development and Relief Agency) recently screened 855 students in the three elementary schools on the mountain. Students with permission from their parents or guardians, were seen by dental professionals who donated their time.

Dental hygienist Shellie Boydston, one of the founders of HAFDRA, said that “it’s an absolute pleasure to serve these children on the mountain. Their oral health is so important in keeping their immune systems healthy, too.

“We have had wonderful volunteers this year,” Boydston added.

Several students from Rim of the World High School assisted. Professionals came from as far away as Temecula, Chino Hills and Claremont. In addition, members of the Rim-area Rotary Clubs helped tremendously, Boydston said.

At Charles Hoffman Elementary, 194 students in kindergarten through fifth grade were screened. There were seven emergency referrals, 62 referrals for fillings and 31 orthodontic referrals. A total of 543 teeth will need sealants.

The greatest number of students – 382 – were screened at Valley of Enchantment Elementary. There were 20 emergency referrals and sealants were recommended on 1,104 teeth.

At Lake Arrowhead Elementary, 279 students were screened. There were 20 emergency referrals and 447 teeth will need to be sealed. Non-emergency treatment was deemed necessary on 170 teeth.

The goal for HAFDRA is to return to the three schools with professionals – dentists and dental hygienists – to complete those sealants. Once those teeth are sealed, the chances of the children developing cavities is reduced.

“It’s an honor,” Boydston said, “to serve our community in this capacity.”