Good oral health is important to the overall health of children and youth, and for your child’s self-esteem and sense of well-being.

An oral health screening will help find oral health problems so children/youth can see an oral health care provider to fix these issues right away.  An oral health screening is available at our offices for children 17 and under. If your child is eligible, we can help your family apply to the Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) program.

Call us to book an appointment for your child at one of the WECHU’s oral health clinics. Our Leamington office is open Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Our Windsor office is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. For more information on the oral health services we provide or to book an appointment for your child’s free oral health screening, call our Oral Health Hotline at 519-258-2146 ext. 1199.

School Dental Screening

Why is dental screening completed in schools?

The Ontario Public Health Standards requires health units to provide dental screening in schools. The grades selected for screening are based on the requirements of the Standards.

Statistics are collected which are forwarded to the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care to determine funding and monitor the dental needs of the community.

A dental screening does not replace your child’s regular visits with their family dentist. No cost government dental programs (i.e. Healthy Smiles Ontario) are offered to eligible children and youth under 17 years of age.

What is a school dental screening?

A notification letter will be sent home before the dental screening is completed at your child’s school.

Dental screening is a “no touch” method that uses a light and sterilized mouth mirror to look at your child’s teeth and surrounding tissues. Braces, spacers, and appliances do not affect the screening and will not be touched by the hygienist.

Your child will bring home their dental screening results in a sealed envelope. Follow-up with a dental health care provider may be needed.