First 5 and Public Health team up to give Ontario preschoolers free dental screenings

First 5 San Bernardino’s ‘Little Teeth, Big Responsibility’ dental health campaign kickoff at Hawthorne Elementary School. The image includes a translucent play button overlay, indicating a video.

Did you know tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease in the U.S.?

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and First 5 San Bernardino has teamed up with the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health’s Smile SBC program to help families make dental care a priority for young children.

The “Little Teeth, Big Responsibility” campaign kicked off on Jan. 30 at Hawthorne Elementary School in Ontario, where 48 preschoolers enjoyed free dental screenings, teeth brushing tips and a surprise visit from Potter the Otter. The annual campaign encourages parents and caregivers of young children to start good dental care habits early because healthy baby teeth form healthy adult teeth. This means establishing daily brushing routines, avoiding sugary drinks and taking their baby to the dentist by their first birthday or first tooth.

“It’s easy to overlook the importance of our child’s baby teeth, and let’s face it, getting your toddler to brush their teeth can be a struggle all of us can relate to,” said First 5 San Bernardino Executive Director Karen Scott. “This is why we team up with Smile SBC every year to help families and children make dental care a priority even before your baby has teeth!”

The stats don’t lie; over 60 percent of kindergarteners in San Bernardino County have experienced tooth decay. The good news is that it’s preventable. Regular brushing and flossing, healthy eating and routine dental visits make a big difference — not just for kids’ health today, but for their future.

NBC 4 Los Angeles joined in on the fun at Hawthorne Elementary School. To watch the segment that aired five times, featuring the special event with the school’s 3-and 4-year-olds visit bit.ly/41451gT.

A special event wrap-up video can be watched at bit.ly/4huqRQw, featuring interviews with First 5 San Bernardino, Smile SBC and Hawthorne Elementary School.

Need help finding a dentist or affordable dental care? Visit Smile SBC’s website for resources, insurance tips and transportation assistance. Let’s make healthy smiles a family priority!

For more information, visit First5SanBernardino.org/OralHealth.

Additional County Update News – Feb. 6, 2025