USING A CHILDRENS DENTAL-HEALTH CARNIVAL AS A PRIMARY VEHICLE TO EDUCATE CHILDREN ABOUT ORAL HEALTH

This study presents survey results regarding tile utilization of a den tal carnival as a primary; educator of oral health in children. Three- hundred randomly selected parents/guardians (54.7 percent of die sampl e) retumed useable surveys. Most carnival events/booths/characters rec eived high ratings in both educational and entertainment value. The en tertain ment value of events/booths was enhanced. by tile level of phy sical activity involved. A significant reduction in the fear children have in going to tile dentist was attributed by respondents to attendi ng the carnival. Respondents indicated that the toothbrushing, flossin g and nutrition habits of children were enhanced by the carnival exper ience. The dental carnival is also seen as being an integral member of the dental team, along with the family and dentist/hygienist, in educ ating children about dental health.