Oral Health Program

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide dental health education and access to dental care for all members of our community. Our goal is to assist every member of our community in achieving a lifetime of good dental health,  free from cavities and gum disease.

Please see our list of Medi-Cal Dentists for Children & Adults that are available in the Mariposa area.

Aging and Dental Health

If you want to feel good, stay healthy, and look great throughout your life, you might be surprised what a difference a  healthy mouth makes. As you age it becomes even more important to take  care of your teeth, gums and overall dental health. One common misconception is that losing your teeth is inevitable. This  is not true. If cared for properly, your teeth  can last your lifetime. By adopting healthy oral home care habits, making smart choices about diet and lifestyle, and seeking regular dental care, you can help your teeth last your lifetime. If over your lifetime you have lost some of your natural teeth, you still need to practice healthy oral care habits. You want to care for your natural teeth, implants, bridges, partials, or dentures. You want to keep all the soft tissues, gums, tongue, palate, and cheeks healthy.

You can learn more about teeth and aging from this link at the Mouth Healthy website.             

How to Teach Your Child to Brush Their Teeth

Brushing for two minutes, twice a day, can become a fun family time for everyone in your home.  You can teach your child good oral health care lessons that will give them a lifetime of decay free teeth and beautiful smiles.  For children three to six years of age, place only a pea size amount of toothpaste on a child sized toothbrush.  A toothpaste containing fluoride, an important cavity fighter, is especially beneficial. Help your child brush his teeth gently, two times every day, that is after breakfast and after dinner. Make sure to rinse mouth and spit out toothpaste into the sink.

Floss between all teeth one time daily. Again rinse mouth and spit out into the sink. You can brush and floss your teeth along with your child, helping you both enjoy good oral health and bright smiles.

Check out this great video from the American Dental Association.

Oral Health and Proper Nutrition during Pregnancy

Check out this video for Caring for You and Your baby During Pregnancy.

Your oral health is an important part of your overall health. Untreated dental disease can be harmful to you and your baby. Be sure to include your oral health in your Daily Self Care Regime. Avoid snacking as it may increase your risk of developing tooth decay. Choose healthy foods. Enjoy a variety of healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, eggs, meats, and dairy products like milk, cheese, cottage cheese and unsweetened yogurt.