Cultivating Healthy Choices
Teachable Moments in Oral Hygiene
The California Parenting Institute reports that the number one reason for referral to Child Protective Services is poor oral health. In 2017, dental pain alone accounted for more than one-million emergency room admissions in adults and children costing more than $1 billion annually Families without insurance, cannot afford hospital dentistry, which can cost from $3,000 – $12,000.
The Pediatric Dental Initiative of the North Coast, known as PDI Surgery Center, was formed in 2002 when a group of health providers, child advocates, social service programs, and public health programs recognizing the plight of low-income families, joined forces to address the unmet oral health needs of children Sonoma, Mendocino, and Lake Counties.
20,000 Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Napa, and Sonoma County children from low-income families are at risk for Early Childhood Caries (ECC) or extreme tooth decay. Every year more than 2,000 Northern California children suffer from tooth decay so severe as to require oral surgery under anesthesia.
PDI Surgery Center not only treats the dental issues these children face, but goes a step further by providing prevention education both in-house and out in the community. PDI's in-house oral health educator meets one-on-one with parents while their child is undergoing oral surgery to provide information on all aspects of oral hygiene – good dental habits, nutrition, and assistance in obtaining health insurance and a dental home. Farm to Pantry is honored to partner with PDI by providing a constant supply of healthy fruits, vegetables, and nuts given to families before they leave PDI to encourage them to make positive nutritional choices and help them to lead healthier lives. Together we aim to make kids smile.