WELCOME TO THE TOOTH TAXI
Children in Oregon are at the bottom of the list when it comes to oral health in our nation. Because of poverty, lack of access, and other social and economic issues, Oregon children suffer more dental pain and infection than children in almost any other state. Poor oral health affects overall health, and, when left untreated, may cause greater problems in the future. If Oregon is to have a promising workforce, we must take care of the children in our state!
That is why the work being performed on the Tooth Taxi is critical.
Here’s how we’ve helped Oregon children since September 2008 when the Tooth Taxi first hit the road:
26,672 students screened at 620 sites.
25,775 students received oral hygiene education in the classroom.
4,979 volunteer hours
$9,360,022 value of dental care provided.
Over the years, our Tooth Taxi dentists have worked miracles with children who are anxious about visiting the dentist. A Tooth taxi dentist shared that “by the end of an appointment with a kindergartner, the tiny patient was singing and laughing and exclaiming how excited she was to see the dentist again. Taking a step back to enjoy these moments with a child allows us to appreciate the large impact we can make when we focus upon the small things.”
It is success stories that inspire The Dental Foundation of Oregon to continue to advocate for improvement and increased education about oral and dental health.
SPREAD THE SMILES. JOIN THE TEAM.
We need volunteers when visiting your community! Come spend a day or half-day on the Tooth Taxi and help make a difference.
FREE DOWNLOAD
BUILD GOOD HABITS AT HOME!
Download and print this free weekly calendar to help a child build good brushing habits. Check off or use fun stickers each day for morning and night brushing!
