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February is National Children's Dental Health Month, brought to you by the American Dental Association (ADA). This month emphasizes the importance of early dental care in preventing cavities and promoting overall health. Cavities are one of the most common chronic childhood diseases, but early intervention can help prevent them. Children should see a dental provider as soon as their first tooth appears or by their first birthday.
Good oral hygiene should begin early. Parents should start brushing their child’s teeth as soon as the first tooth emerges using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste no larger than a grain of rice. By age three, a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste can be used. Children should brush twice a day and start flossing as soon as two teeth touch. Regular dental visits, fluoride treatments, and a healthy diet also play a key role in preventing cavities.
At Steele County Public Health, we promote early dental care through our Child and Teen Checkups (C&TC) program by providing support and guidance in finding services that fit your needs. This month on Health Talk, we explore the importance of dental hygiene and the services that Let’s Smile, Inc. provides for children in our community. If you or someone you know needs help finding a dental provider that accepts Medical Assistance or no insurance, please reach out to the Child and Teen Checkups coordinator at (507) 444-7650.
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Healthy Smiles, Inc.
At Steele County Public Health, a dental hygienist, Shannon Kruckeberg, RDH, provides dental care for children aged 14 and younger once a month. These services include cleanings, oral health education, topical fluoride varnish, screenings, and referrals to a dentist if needed. More than 40% of children experience tooth decay before entering kindergarten. By offering these services and reducing barriers to care, we aim to lower that percentage in Steele County. Children may receive care 2 to 4 times a year, with a minimum recommendation of at least twice a year. If you or someone you know could benefit from these services, please contact Steele County Public Health at (507) 444-7650.
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Let's Smile, Inc.
Let's Smile, Inc. is committed to improving the oral health and overall well-being of underserved children and teens through accessible dental care and education. By providing portable school-based dental clinics and a community-based dental clinic, the organization aims to raise awareness about the vital connection between oral health and overall health. Their comprehensive services include oral evaluations, preventive procedures like fluoride varnish and sealants, restorative treatments such as fillings and extractions, and oral health education. Let's Smile, Inc. supports children and teens covered by Minnesota Health Care Plans (MHCP) and those who are uninsured, ensuring they receive the dental care they need to thrive. The organization is dedicated to early intervention, following the Minnesota Child and Teen Checkup standards, and strives to make dental care accessible to all. For more information, contact Let's Smile, Inc. at (507) 455-4063 or visit their website at www.letssmileinc.com.
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American Heart Month: Keeping Your Heart Healthy
As we observe American Heart Month, it’s important to remember that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. You can help reduce your risk and improve your heart health by following the ABCS:
A: Take Aspirin as Directed
Ask your healthcare professional if aspirin can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke, especially if you have a family history of heart disease or stroke.
B: Control Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is the top risk factor for heart attack and stroke. Know your blood pressure numbers and work with your healthcare professional.
C: Manage Your Cholesterol
Too much “bad” cholesterol can lead to a build-up in your arteries, increasing your risk for heart disease. Talk to your healthcare provider about your cholesterol levels.
S: Don’t Smoke
Smoking raises blood pressure, which significantly increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. If you smoke, visit QuitPartnerMN.com or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for support and resources for quitting.
For more information on the ABCs of heart health, visit ABCS of Heart Health | Million Hearts®
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Now Accepting SHIP Project Proposals!
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Steele County Public Health is awarding over $20,000 to community organizations, schools, and workplaces for projects that promote physical activity, healthy eating, commercial tobacco prevention, and mental well-being.
If you have an idea for a SHIP project, submit your proposal by Monday, March 3rd at 5:00 PM using the link below. If you have questions, please reach out at (507) 444-7650 or SHIP@SteeleCountyMN.gov.
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 Anxious Generation Community Conversation
Join the conversation on the impact of social media on youth mental health through a three-part discussion series featuring The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. This book explores the effects of the digital world on today’s youth, sparking important conversations about how we can support them in navigating these challenges.
The first session took place on February 17th, but there’s still time to join the upcoming discussions on March 17th and April 21st from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
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 Steele County Blood Drive
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. To meet this need, Steele County Public Health is hosting a blood drive on Wednesday, March 19th, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Steele County Community Center, 1380 S Elm Ave, Owatonna, MN.
To thank you for donating, the Red Cross will send $10 Visa Prepaid Cards by email to everyone who donates in March!
Schedule your donation appointment at the link below or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter Steele County.
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Help Steele County Public Health define our community’s top health priorities by choosing the 5 issues you believe are most important for us to address by clicking the button below! This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of health and wellness in our community. Your input will directly influence the programs and services we prioritize, ensuring they meet the needs and concerns of those we serve. |
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Steele County Public Health (SCPH) is dedicated to preventing disease, promoting wellness, and protecting the health of Steele County residents through a variety of services such as family health programs, immunization clinics, and home health care. SCPH also provides resources for radon and water testing, health education, and emergency preparedness to realize its vision of Healthy People in Healthy Communities. |
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