For many children, visiting the dentist can be a stressful experience, especially for those from low-income families who may not have access to regular dental care. However, students at Westmore Elementary School in Orem, Utah, now have an opportunity to receive free dental services on campus, thanks to a partnership between the school and Utah Valley University (UVU).
Bridging the Gap in Dental Care
Westmore Elementary School Principal Vic Larsen explained that this program was created to ensure that all students, regardless of their family’s financial situation, have access to dental care. The initiative aims to address dental issues that may affect students’ ability to attend school and, in turn, their academic performance. Larsen emphasized that dental pain can cause children to miss school, which can significantly impact their ability to learn essential skills such as reading, writing, and math.
“If they’re missing school, they’re not going to learn how to read, write, (and) do math, and if they can’t learn how to read, write, (and) do math, then doors aren’t going to open up to them in the future,” Larsen said.
By offering dental services right at the school, the program helps break down barriers for students and gives them a better chance of achieving their educational goals.
A Collaborative Effort
The dental services are provided by UVU dental hygiene students who volunteer their time at the school. This collaboration happens twice a week, and during the current school year, around 60 Westmore Elementary students have benefited from the clinic.
Parents must provide consent for their children to receive the services, which include dental exams, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants, and cleanings — all free of charge.
Dr. Larsen acknowledged the significant impact of the partnership. “Through our partnership with the UVU dental hygiene program, we have greatly impacted the lives of our students,” he said.
Supporting Families in Need
While the dental program is available to all students at Westmore Elementary, it provides especially important support to families experiencing financial hardships. Alyson Madsen, the school’s community outreach coordinator, explained that about 70% of the student population comes from low-income households.
Madsen shared that some parents are deeply moved by the opportunity to have their children receive dental care. “They get emotional because they’re in a situation right now where they can’t even afford their housing, and just to be able to have their child seen, (and) understand what’s going on with their kid,” she said.
In addition to the on-site dental care, Madsen also helps connect families to affordable resources if additional dental treatment is needed.
