Westrock Orthodontics, which operates a clinic at 181 Kentucky Ave., Suite 300 in West Plains, is distributing more than 7,000 oral hygiene kits to schools and community organizations across southern Missouri as the new school year gets underway.
Each kit includes a toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste and dental floss packed in a reusable carrying case that can double as a pencil pouch. The supplies are intended for school nurses to distribute to students who lack access to basic oral hygiene items.
“Good oral health helps children stay healthy, reduces preventable dental pain and supports regular school attendance and classroom learning,” said Jessica Deaver, regional manager with Westrock Orthodontics. “While school supplies often receive the most attention, basic hygiene items are just as essential. We want school nurses and educators to have these resources available so every child has the opportunity to care for their health and feel confident walking into the classroom.”
According to the American Academy for Oral & Systemic Health, children with untreated dental problems are up to three times more likely to miss school due to dental pain than their peers. The local distribution is part of a larger, multistate investment by the company to provide oral hygiene supplies to schools and families.
Local schools, parent-teacher organizations, school nurses and youth-serving community organizations interested in receiving kits can contact Josh Gwin at josh.gwin@rockdentalbrands.com. Requests will be fulfilled as supplies are available.
