29-03-2025
FDRHPO receives $10k grant from Fidelis to help with oral hygiene
Mar. 28—WATERTOWN — The Fort Drum Regional Health Organization was awarded a one-year grant from Fidelis Care's "Rural Health Grant Awards" which will be used to improve pediatric oral health in the area.
The grant, for $10,000, will help FDRHPO collaborate with Pediatric Wellness of Northern New York in order to provide their patients with fluoride varnish treatments, dental care supplies, and dental practices in the region.
"Dr. Myla Estepa of Pediatric Wellness of Northern New York has always shown a passion for improving the health and wellness of her patients by addressing barriers to receiving the care they need. One aspect of health that is easily overlooked is dental health," Ian Francis, FDRHPO Practice Transformation Specialist said in a news release.
In addition to providing medical supplies, FDRHPO will also develop and disseminate an educational and awareness campaign to educate the public about the importance of daily oral hygiene and care in children's oral and dental health.
The news release states that families may have challenges, whether that be transportation, financial, insurance, or a lack of awareness about preventative care, that could leave children without regular dental check ups, which could increase the risk of untreated tooth decay.
"This pilot seeks to mitigate and address these issues by providing dental care supplies and fluoride varnish treatments through the primary care setting, thereby expanding a basic level of oral care and awareness to children who are not established with a dental practice," the news release reads.
