Rinse Program:
Outline
Administrative Guidelines

Tablet Program:
Outline
Administrative Guidelines

King Fluoride
School-Based Tablet Program Outline

Program Description
The King Fluoride Tablet Program is a voluntary, daily dietary fluoride supplement for the prevention of tooth decay. In a community without a fluoridated water supply, a school-based daily fluoride tablet program will reduce tooth decay by 30-40%. The program targets grades K-6 in schools with a 30% or greater rate of students on Free and Reduced Lunch Programs, as their decay rates are statistically higher. This program is sponsored by the Oregon Public Health and provided at no cost to the schools or students. Program materials for training are provided by the Oregon Health Services for all volunteers.

The program is easy to administer, easy for the children to use, and causes no mess! The children chew one tablet for 30 seconds, swish for 30 seconds, then swallow. Only those students who have reached their third birthday, have written parental/guardian consent, are NOT taking tablets at home, and DO NOT live in a fluoridated community are eligible for this school program. Those students whose home drinking water comes from private wells must have their water tested for fluoride levels before participating. (See attached list of approved testing laboratories.)

History
The school-based fluoride tablet program began statewide in 1987.

Need
There has been a national trend showing a decline in tooth decay in 6-17 year olds over the last 10 years. Forty-nine percent of children in this age group are now cavity free. The national trend has been due largely to increased access to fluoride through water fluoridation, fluoride mouthrinse, tablets, and toothpaste, as well as increased concern and interest in maintaining oral hygiene. Although 49% cavity free looks great, in Oregon 55% of 6-8 year olds, 46% of 10-12 year olds, and 70% of teens have experienced tooth decay. Without a school-based fluoride tablet program, these students might never have access to preventive dental services.

Program Effectiveness:

• When used consistently, a school-based daily fluoride tablet program can reduce tooth decay by 30-40%.



• Less time is taken from school for dental treatment.




• King Fluoride is a useful educational tool for teaching the general concepts of prevention and wellness.

Just a reminder . . . It is DAILY exposure to fluoride which is most EFFECTIVE in repairing the damage of decay acids. Daily use is the best way to prevent tooth decay. You as the teacher, school nurse, parent, or other volunteer are the vital link for many children in maintaining healthy teeth.