Dental Health, Dental Literacy
Research studies are continuing to prove that our oral health plays a critical role in our overall health. If you are helping to increase your learner’s health literacy by reviewing medical words, medicine bottles and insurance forms, include some tips for dental care and visits.
If your learner is a parent, this will equip him or her to help prevent dental problems and share important tips.
To start, brainstorm common words heard in the dentist’s office and in commercials for dental care products. Then work together to define them. Some examples:
- Tooth decay
- Cavity
- Gingivitis
- Filling
- Fluoride
Ask you dentist for informational brochures on brushing, flossing and common procedures. Often these include pictures. Review the materials during tutoring sessions and dental literacy will grow along with confidence in visiting the dentist.
Resources for information include:
The American Dental Association
Got an idea for a Tutor Tip of the Month? Let us know!