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April 7, 2008
Little Rock –Oral health is not just about having a beautiful smile. Poor oral health has been linked to diabetes as well as heart and lung diseases. Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease, but many Arkansans don’t realize just how important good oral health can be.
According to Paul K. Halverson, DrPH, FACHE, Director and State Health Officer, public Health today is focused on prevention. “The cost to the average Arkansan for a lifetime of water fluoridation to prevent tooth decay is less than the cost of just one filling,” Halverson said.
Partners in public health from the non-profit, government and private sectors are uniting this week in an effort to highlight oral health’s importance in the health of all Arkansans. Participants include the Arkansas Department of Health, Stamp Out Smoking, Hometown Health Improvement, Arkansas Center for Health Improvement, Arkansas Public Health Association, Arkansas State Dental Hygienists’ Association, Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care, Arkansas State Dental Association, UAMS College of Public Health and UAMS Regional Programs.
Individuals and organizations from around the state have been named as recipients of this year’s Public Health Heroes awards for their achievement in advancing the cause of better oral health in the state. This year’s recipients include:
Poinsett County Partners in Health Coalition--Harrisburg
For work on Harrisburg Water Fluoridation
Laura Cook, Community Health Nurse Specialist
Merle Williams
Crittenden Regional Hospital/UT Pediatric Dentistry--W. Memphis
For their Oral Health Education Program
Sanford Fenton, DDS, MDS
UT Pediatric Dentistry
Ramona Taylor
Crittenden Regional Hospital
AR Mission of Mercy--Little Rock
For work in meeting Unmet Dental Access Needs
Edie Mauldin, Executive Director
Arkansas State Dental Association
UAMS Dept of Dental Hygiene--Little Rock
For their work in providing Increased Access to Care for Underserved
Dr. Susan Long, Chairman and Professor
Perry County Hometown Health Advocacy Team--Perryville
For work on the Fluoridation of the Water System
Michele Barlow, Administrator
Perry County LHU
Greg Spinks, Administrator
Perry County DCO
Christy Campbell
Darlene Spinks
Healthy Connections--Mena
For their Dental Sealant Program
Doreen Tapley, Outreach Director
Healthy Connections
Dr. Michael Johnston/Dr. Bryant Richardson and Staff
Head Start Dental Services--Russellville
Dr. Russ Gorman
Head Start Dental Services--Hot Springs
To help your family have healthier smiles; and to learn about dental sealants, fluoridation and much more, visit us at aroralhealth.com, or call (501) 661-2595.
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