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Our local health unit says response to a new pilot project for dental screenings has been all smiles.
The Renfrew County and District Health Unit is in the middle of offering free visual inspections with registered dental hygienists for students who have just completed junior kindergarten, senior kindergarten, or Grade 2.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Jason Morgenstern says the pilot is in addition to the nearly 4,000 screenings done over the past school year, which saw the amount of students being referred for emergency dental surgery grow to 11%.
Dr. Morgenstern notes that local parents have appreciated the additional opportunities to have serious conversations about their children’s dental health with an expert, as well as the health unit’s work to help families in need pay for treatment.
Board of Health Chair Joanne King adds that the ongoing series of community clinics might be of particular interest to homeschool households who may not have access to the clinics offered through the school system, as well as for parents who want a better understanding about their kid’s health.
The RCDHU’s current set of dental screening clinics has already made stops in Arnprior, Killaloe, and Petawawa over the past month and will conclude at the RCDHU Hub in Renfrew from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 15th.
Book your appointment by calling 613-735-8661 or by email. Walk-in appointments will also be available.
(written by Kasey Egan)
