Mouthful of fun

Ever since its inception about two years ago, over 4,000 children have participated in the "small mouths" dental awareness campaign. Dressed in little white coats with masks over their mouths, children have learnt about oral hygiene in a fun-filled environment aimed at inculcating the habit of dental care from a young age.

"These visits, made to private schools or groups, are purely educational, free and do not involve checking the children's teeth," says Jane Foster, patient relation manager with Jumeirah-based Drs. Nicolas & Asp dental surgeons clinic which runs the programme. After each session every child is provided with a 'goodie bag' containing dental care material, by Philips/Jordan, the sponsors of the programme.

Developed by Debra Herbert, a dental therapist, the programme is aimed at children aged four to ten. The children are encouraged to participate in active discussions and correct brushing demonstrations. The use of oversized props and puppets makes it an enjoyable learning experience.

"We also organise various activities throughout the year to reinforce the message to the children as part of an ongoing campaign rather than a one-off visit," says Foster. A drawing competition is held annually on subjects related to oral hygiene and dental care called the "small mouths" drawing competition. The popular 'Dudley & Dee Dee' videos (supplied by the American Dental Association) are also used as a part of the programme.

The approximate duration of the video show and talk is 45 minutes and can be adapted in duration for use as part of a school assembly or individual class or age group. Apart from schools, the sessions are conducted for scouts and guides and other private groups of children. For further information call 04-3454443.