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REACH oral health program targets cavities in kids
iBerkshires.com, June 08, 2006

REACH Launches New Anti-Cavity Push for Northern Berkshire School Children New Oral Health Project Manager Brings REACH Dental Sealant Benefits to Uninsured Children

The REACH Community Health Foundation has announced the appointment of Gita Jozsef, RDH, MSHS as Oral Health Project Manager for the Healthy Smiles Project. Jozsef is initiating a new push to bring the anti-cavity benefits of dental sealants to uninsured elementary and intermediate school children in the Northern Berkshire District.

"The application of dental sealants to school age children provides lasting health and economic benefits by preventing decay, infection, and eventual tooth loss," said Betty Chludzinski, Vice President of the REACH Foundation. "I am delighted that Gita Jozsef has agreed to lead our expanded sealant program for elementary and intermediate school children in the Northern Berkshires."

"I am excited to have the opportunity to bring the benefits of dental sealants to local school children," said Jozsef. "I conducted research on REACH Foundation as part of my graduate studies and was most impressed by the effectiveness of its community outreach programs and the drive and dedication of its staff. I know we can make a difference by pushing this program and I am honored to have the opportunity to put all my energy into achieving this goal."

Jozsef has 25 years of experience in all phases of dental hygiene and dental health education. In addition to her dental hygiene degree, she holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology from the City University of New York and a master's degree in Health Sciences/Public Health from Touro University International. She is past president of the Berkshire District Dental Hygienists' Association and is currently treasurer of the Massachusetts Dental Hygienists' Association.

The Healthy Smiles program, now in its third year, is underwritten by a grant of $25,000 from the Oral Health Foundation to purchase portable dental equipment and help families who cannot afford protective dental sealants for their children's teeth.

Jozsef works closely with school nurses and administrators to educate parents on the benefits of dental sealants. The children's teeth are screened during school hours by Drs. John Moresi and Leonard Radin, supervising dentists for Healthy Smiles. The dental sealants are applied by Jozsef or by one of the dentists.

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are easily and painlessly applied to the chewing areas of molars and premolars to prevent tooth decay. They can keep teeth healthy for years by providing a physical barrier that keeps decay-causing bacteria from invading the pits and grooves on the chewing surfaces of teeth. Sealants save money by reducing the need for fillings and other expensive treatment.

Healthy Smiles will visit each Northern Berkshire school at least once a year, to offer this preventive service. Children who have MassHealth insurance are eligible for the program, as well as any child not covered by private dental insurance. Parents with questions about dental sealants or about the Healthy Smiles program may contact Gita Jozsef at 413-664-5429.

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