The Adair County School District’s dedication to its students doesn’t stop in the classroom, and this holistic commitment is currently on full display at Adair County Primary Center, where students are receiving free dental care this week and next week.
“About half the school—around 300 students—took advantage of this service last year, and it looks to be about the same this time around,” says Paula Garrison, the Family Resource coordinator at ACPC. “This is something that prevents future dental issues if cavities or abscesses are detected early.”
The unique offering is provided by Cumberland Family Medical, who has partnered with Adair County since 2008 by bringing its dental van on campus to serve students. While the van is out of commission this week, the work continues, with a small conference room at ACPC being temporarily converted into a dentist’s office.
Students who turn in a signed permission form are given free cleanings and screenings, as well as a bag of dental care products and tips on keeping their teeth clean and healthy. Some students may also receive sealants to prevent cavities. A dental report card is sent home to the student’s parents after his or her cleaning. The card includes notification if follow-up care or urgent care is needed, orthodontic referrals, and says whether or not fluoride was applied or if sealants were placed.
The dental van is scheduled to make its triumphant return next week, and will then visit the district’s other three schools—Adair County Elementary, Adair County Middle School, and Adair County High School.
“This program is a proven success,” Garrison says. “It’s a great opportunity to support students’ health.”
By Wes Feese
Media Relations, Adair County Schools
