Pre-K, kindergarten and first grade students at Santa Fe South Hills Elementary got a hands-on lesson in healthy smiles.

Dr. Nicole Reynolds, DDS, director of Dental Health Service with the Oklahoma State Department of Health, led an interactive presentation focused on the importance of proper oral hygiene and what children can expect when visiting the dentist. Students also enjoyed a special appearance by Captain Supertooth, DDOK Foundation’s superhero mascot. Each student received a free toothbrush to encourage ongoing dental health.

“Meeting kids where they are – in classrooms – is one of the most effective ways to reinforce positive oral health habits,” said Terrisa Singleton-Smith, director of Delta Dental of Oklahoma Foundation. “By combining education with fun, interactive experiences like Captain Supertooth, we’re making dental care accessible, memorable and impactful.”

Empowering Oklahoma kids to take control of their dental health is critical. Children with poor oral health often miss more school and receive lower grades than those with good dental hygiene. Additionally, Oklahoma received a "D" on the most recent Oral Health Report Card, driven by a low percentage of children receiving preventive dental care and a higher rate of untreated tooth decay than the national average.

“Oral health is a big part of overall health,” said Dr. Reynolds, DDS. “It’s never too early to educate kids on proper brushing, flossing and why going to the dentist matters.”

Delta Dental of Oklahoma Foundation is the state’s largest contributor to initiatives that support children’s oral health. Learn more by visiting DDOKFoundation.org. Captain Supertooth is a free program offered to classrooms across the state. Oklahoma educators who would like to book a date for Captain Supertooth to visit their school may visit CaptainSupertooth.com.