North Florida Medical (NFM) is proud to announce the expansion of services to include an Elementary Dental Outreach program in Taylor County. This program provides dental assessments, oral health and total health education, application of fluoride varnishes, oral hygiene instructions, prophylaxis, (cleanings) and dental sealants by licensed dental hygienists. NFM currently operates similar programs at four Okaloosa County elementary schools and three in Gadsden County.
School based sealant programs increase sealant use and reduce cavities. In addition, school programs have the potential to link students to dental treatment services in the community such as NFM’s dental center in Perry. They also facilitate enrollment of eligible children in public insurance programs such as Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program.
These school-based initiatives not only improve immediate oral health outcomes but also contribute to long-term wellness by establishing good oral hygiene habits early in life. By offering preventive treatments such as fluoride varnishes and dental sealants, these programs help to significantly reduce the incidence of cavities, which are one of the most common chronic conditions among children. Access to these preventive services in school settings ensures that children who might not otherwise receive dental care can still benefit from essential treatments, laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
In many cases, the benefits of early intervention extend beyond school programs, encouraging families to seek further dental care for their children. For example, practitioners like Gregory L. Bryan, DDS, highlight the significance of ongoing care after these school-based services. After receiving preventive care, children are often referred to local dental professionals for comprehensive evaluations and ongoing treatments. By bridging the gap between school services and regular dental visits, these programs ensure that children not only start strong in terms of their oral health but also maintain that health with continued professional support.
Other than preventive care, many families are turning to cosmetic dental treatments to enhance the health and appearance of their children’s teeth as they grow. Addressing concerns such as misalignment, gaps, or discoloration early on can set the foundation for a more confident smile. Treatments like braces or teeth whitening can be integrated into a child’s dental care plan as they age, helping them maintain both oral health and aesthetics. For families seeking advanced solutions, a Dental Implants Adelaide specialist can offer options that ensure not only the functionality of teeth but also long-term beauty.
As children transition into adulthood, some may require more complex dental solutions. When they reach an age where permanent teeth need replacement or restoration, dental implants can provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing option. Working alongside general dentists and cosmetic specialists ensures that a child’s dental journey remains on track, with each stage of care designed to keep their smile both healthy and beautiful. Early intervention, combined with ongoing cosmetic treatments, allows children to enjoy a lifetime of confident smiles.
Practices like High Dental Implants Melbourne take this commitment a step further, ensuring that patients feel at ease from the moment they walk through the door. They understand that undergoing treatments, especially procedures like whole mouth dental implants Melbourne, can feel overwhelming. That’s why they prioritize creating a comfortable and stress-free environment for their patients. With state-of-the-art technology and a compassionate team of professionals, they make it easy to restore your smile, no matter the complexity of your needs. From consultation to post-treatment care, High Dental Implants Melbourne provides a supportive experience designed to ensure optimal results and a renewed sense of confidence in every patient.
As individuals continue to prioritize their oral health and appearance, expert cosmetic dentistry has become a crucial aspect of comprehensive care. While traditional dental treatments remain essential, many patients seek more advanced solutions to enhance the aesthetics of their smiles.
Forty-three percent of students at the Taylor County elementary schools are enrolled in the Free and Reduced Lunch Program, indicating these students are from low-income families. The addition of these schools to NFM’s programs will increase access to necessary dental care to the low income, underserved and uninsured children in our service area. The dental hygienists will provide services at the school, which will reduce transportation issues for children and families.
A healthy mouth is paramount to a healthy child. Medical studies link proper dental care to the well-being of the entire body. Providing dental services to these children allows NFM to increase patient access and fulfill its mission: to increase access to quality healthcare and improve the overall health of the community.
NFM’s Perry location provides both medical and dental services, as well as programs for diabetes management. NFM accepts most insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare, and offers a sliding scale fee of $10-$30 based on household income. The proximity to the school and the payment options provide an effective safety net for children who require additional medical or dental services.
To schedule an appointment at NFM, call 850-838-2030 for medical appointments or 850-223-2578 for dental services.
About North Florida Medical
North Florida Medical Centers is a nonprofit with 10 locations in North Florida. We are committed to providing comprehensive primary health care services to the community. The center accepts most insurance and offers a sliding scale discount program for eligible patients while providing highly quality and cost-effective medical and dental care for the entire family. High quality care reduces or eliminates the need for costly care in the emergency room or avoidable hospital stays.
North Florida Medical’s Perry office is currently at 616 S Jefferson Street but will be completing their new and expanded facility at 1850 South Byron Butler Parkway this year. To schedule an appointment at North Florida Medical in Perry, please call (850) 838-2030.