Oregon Smile and Healthy Growth Screening
(In past years, this was called the Oregon Smile Survey)
During the school years 2022-23 and 2023-24, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is conducting a statewide childhood health screening effort. The Oregon Smile and Healthy Growth Screening is a unique health assessment which provides local communities and the State with a better understanding of our childhood population health status and identifies health concerns which would otherwise be missed. Programs throughout the state rely on this data for program planning. The data collected is confidential.
This year it was more important than ever that children were screened for their oral health, height and weight, as many children have missed dental and well-child visits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Children with cavities often experience pain, which can contribute to school absenteeism. One of the goals of this screening is to identify children who need to be treated by a dental professional and give this information to their families and schools.
One first-, second- and third-grade classroom were selected at each participating school. A trained Registered Dental Hygienist screened children from these classrooms by measuring their height and weight and looking inside their mouth for any tooth decay. The screening takes less than two minutes per child and does not hurt. If any dental problems are found, the dental hygienist tells a school staff person who can help families find a dental provider if needed. This screening does not include dental treatment or x-rays.
or by phone at 971-666-8815 (voice or text)