Oct. 03, 2018
We are pleased to recognize the contribution of The Alex Dental Health Bus to students and schools in the CBE and presented them with a Lighthouse Award at the Oct. 2 Board of Trustees Meeting.
The Alex Dental Health Bus provides preventative oral health services and support in 24 CBE schools. Last year, they helped 1,025 CBE students. In the six years they have been in our schools, 4,500 students have had oral health screens and nearly 6,000 have received fluoride varnish applications. Additionally, families are alerted to any decay and many are referred to Dental Access Clinics for further support. By providing low-barrier dental care on wheels, and working alongside the Calgary Board of Education, the Alex Dental Bus is able to target support and improve the quality of life for Calgary’s children and youth.
The Alex Dental Health Bus was launched as a pilot project in July of 2012. Initial funding came from the Willow Park Charity Classic Golf Tournament and the City of Calgary through savings from de-fluoridation of municipal water. Today, the project is largely funded by Dental Corp, anonymous and private donations.
Good oral health gives our students confidence to work to their potential. We know that when we support student well-being, they are more able to learn. The Alex Dental Health Bus helps them do so with a smile.
