Dental Services
Miles of Smiles is a school-based oral screening and fluoride varnish program available to preschool, elementary, and middle school-aged students within the 9 county district of the North Central District Health Department (NCDHD). The Miles of Smiles program uses Public Health Authorized Registered Dental Hygienists to conduct the oral screening examinations and apply fluoride varnish. Fluoride Varnish can be applied 2-6 times per year and can decrease cavity development by approximately 38%.
NCDHD is an approved Medicaid provider. The Miles of Smiles service is covered for children enrolled in Medicaid/MCNA. A $20.00 donation is appreciated for the children who are not currently enrolled in these programs, but there is no fee to participate in the program and children will not be denied services due to inability to provide a donation.
Fluoride Varnish Facts:
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Fluoride varnish is a sticky, honey like material that is applied to the teeth with a small brush, dries quickly on the tooth surface and can decrease further cavity development by about 38%. It is called varnish due to its sticky consistency.
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Fluoride varnish provides a protective coating on the teeth and it is best that it be undisturbed for several hours.
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Fluoride varnish should be applied 2 times per year and can be applied as many as 6 times per year.
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Fluoride varnish will cause a yellowish film on the teeth that will go away with regular tooth-brushing. A typical fluoride varnish application cost anywhere from $12-$40.
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Fluoride varnish is safe. It adheres to teeth once it comes in contact with saliva and can be precisely applied to the teeth.
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Fluoride varnish is approved by the American Dental Association and the Federal Food & Drug Administration.
For more information, contact Mindy Spencer, Miles of Smiles Coordinator.
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