School-based Screening
The Oral Health and Clinical Support Services Team at the Middlesex-London Health is mandated to provide dental screenings for all publically-funded elementary schools in the City of London and Middlesex County.
What is a dental screening?
A dental screening is a quick visual look in a child’s mouth using a “No Touch” technique. The dental screening is completed by a Registered Dental Hygienist with the help of a Certified Dental Assistant. The dental hygienist uses a sterilized mirror to move the cheek or tongue aside to see the teeth surfaces. Dental Report Cards are sent home with children who are screened to provide parents with feedback on their oral health. Please note: A dental screening does not replace an exam with a dentist.
Why did I receive a Parent Notification Form (PNF)?
Your child received a PNF because the dental hygienist found an urgent dental condition in your child’s mouth. The Health Unit is mandated to follow up on all urgent dental conditions and assist parents in seeking professional dental care. Please respond to the PNF you receive from the Health Unit regarding your child’s dental screening. If you have any questions about the PNF, please contact the Health Unit at 519-663-5317.
- If your child is already enrolled in Healthy Smiles Ontario, you are able to pay for treatment and/or you have dental insurance:
Ask your dentist to complete Sections 1 of the PNF and return to the Health Unit.
- If you have no dental insurance, or other coverage, for the necessary treatment AND the cost of dental treatment is difficult:
Complete Section 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D and 2E of the PNF. Your child may be eligible to receive the necessary treatment at no cost through the Healthy Smiles Ontario program.
What if I do not wish my child to be screened?
If you do not wish to have your child screened at school, please contact your child’s school to inquire about excluding your child from dental screening. If you have questions about your child’s dental screening, please call the Health Unit at 519-663-5317.
Date of creation: December 3, 2012
Last modified on: March 19, 2024
