School-based Dental Programs

Open Door Health Center

School-based Dental Program

Did you know that Open Door provides free dental screenings to children in many elementary schools in and around Blue Earth County?

We understand that a healthy mouth is an important part of overall health and wellness, and a healthy child is more ready to learn.  Our partnership with schools in Blue Earth, Nicollet, Watonwan, Brown, and Martin counties gives families the advantage of free oral health examinations and education for their elementary-aged children.

Schools we currently serve:

  • Butterfield Elementary
  • Fairmont Elementary
  • St. Peter Elementary (North & South)
  • St. James Elementary
  • Sleepy Eye Elementary
  • Sherburn/Trimont Elementary
  • Lake Crystal Elementary
  • ISD 77 (Roosevelt, Rosa Parks, Franklin, Jefferson, Kennedy, Monroe, Washington)

Examinations in participating schools happen twice per year, spring and fall. Each visit occurs right in the child’s elementary school and includes:

  • A dental screening
  • Fluoride varnish
  • Sealants applied where appropriate
  • Tooth care instruction and supplies

Also, information is sent home with the parents, which may include any areas of concern or need for follow-up treatment.

Parents must register their children for this service

There is no cost to participate in the school-based dental outreach program, which takes place at the child’s school. A parent or guardian must complete the form and answer screening questions.

Parents: please complete the process one time for each child participating.

This screening does not take the place of regular dental checkups by a dentist.

Please call our School Dental Outreach Department at Open Door Health Center at (507) 388-2120 ext. 5654 if you have any questions.

Questions about School-based Dental

(507) 388-2120
Ext. 5654

School-based Dental
Parent Consent Form

Are the school based dental screenings free?

Yes its free this service is provided by a grant from the CDEI and Delta Dental (HS)

What is a fluoride varnish and is it safe?

It is a protective coating that is painted on the teeth to help prevent cavities or slow down cavities that have already started. Fluoride varnishes are safe and can be used on babies from the time they have their first tooth. Only a very small amount is used.

How long does the fluoride last?

The fluoride coating works best if it is painted on the teeth three to four times a year.

Does my child still need to see a dentist?

YES! Fluoride varnish treatments do not replace the need for yearly dental checkups.

What are dental sealants?

It is a protective coating that is applied/painted in the grooves of a molar (back) teeth to help prevent new cavities.

How long do dental sealants last?

A sealant can last for as long as 5 to 10 years. Sealants should be checked at your regular dental appointment and can be reapplied if they are no longer in place.

Which elementary schools does the dental team visit? When?

Fall school-based dental visits have not been scheduled yet. Please check back at a later time.

Roosevelt Elementary – Feb 3rd Northside (St. James) Elementary – Mar 20th
LCWM Elementary – Feb 7th Monroe Elementary – Cancelled due to COVID-19
Jefferson Elementary – Feb 10th St. Peter South Elementary – Cancelled due to COVID-19
MCW-Sherburn Elementary – Feb 21st St. Peter North Elementary – Cancelled due to COVID-19
MCW-Trimont Elementary – Feb 21st Rosa Parks Elementary – Cancelled due to COVID-19
Kennedy Elementary – Feb 24th Butterfield Elementary – Cancelled due to COVID-19
Washington Elementary – Mar 9th Fairmont Elementary – Cancelled due to COVID-19
Franklin Elementary – Mar 16th Sleepy Eye Elementary – Cancelled due to COVID-19

Open Door Health Center is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). Open Door Health Center receives HHS funding and is a Health Center Program grantee under 42 U.S.C 254b, and is deemed a Public Health Service employer under 42 U.S.C. 233 (g)-(n)
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