Delta Dental of Missouri expands its oral health program to St. Joseph-area preschoolers   

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV)-- Nearly one in four children between the ages of two and five already have cavities, according to a news release from the Oral Health Program for preschoolers in St. Joseph. 

To help tackle the problem, Delta Dental of Missouri, a nonprofit organization, is expanding its “Land of Smiles” dental education program to preschoolers in the St. Joseph area.  

The program features a fun, 15-minute video designed just for kids. In it, characters like Captain Super Grin, Terri Tooth Fairy and the cavity-causing villain Caz Cavity teach children important habits — brushing twice a day, flossing, choosing healthy foods and making regular trips to the dentist.  

Kids can also earn a “Smile Bag.” Inside, they’ll find a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss and a dental resource guide that lists free and low-cost dental care options in their community.  

The program is reaching younger children through partnerships with more than 50 preschools and Head Start programs in the area. 

Preschool and Head Start directors or staff members who are interested in bringing the free virtual program to their classrooms can sign up www.landofsmilesmo.org/.