Read the summary of Dr. Nystuen's presentation on lice prevention and treatment.
Remember the best defense against illness is thorough and frequent hand washing with soap and warm water!
Notes from the Nurse
Oral Health Care
Despite statewide efforts to promote oral health, many children are still affected by dental caries (cavities). Nationwide, dental caries are the most common chronic disease in children. By age 6, more than 40% of children in the U.S. have had a cavity.
Dental caries are caused by bacteria that produce a destructive lactic acid and sticky plaque. The acid eats away at the enamel of the tooth, which is the visible, outermost layer. When left untreated, dental decay can spread to the nerve and pulp tissues of the tooth resulting in toothache, dental abscess, or facial cellulitis. Early stages of caries are often invisible and asymptomatic. Sometimes, though, a white, chalky area is visible close to the gum line. This is decalcification caused by bacterial acid and it directly precedes a cavity. It can be reversed, or “remineralized,” by the application of fluoride by a dentist. Active cavities may have a golden-brown color and are identified by a dental probe or x-ray.
The good news is that dental caries can be prevented. High sugar content in the diet plays a major role in tooth decay. Parents should try to provide a healthy, balanced diet and limit consumption of sweetened drinks and soda. Children between the ages of 8 and 17 are at the greatest risk for tooth decay from consuming acidic, sugar-rich soft drinks because the enamel protecting their teeth has not fully developed. The American Dental Association recommends visiting a dentist every six months. Brush teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay by hardening the enamel and by inhibiting the ability of the bacteria to produce acid. If your main source of water is from a bottle, you may be missing out on the benefits of fluoridated water. The Massachusetts Dental Society has found that people who drink fluoridated water from birth experience 35% less tooth decay over their lifetime. Dental sealants provide significant protection against decay. They are plastic coatings that are “painted” onto the teeth to protect against cavities by sealing out food and plaque.
Future trends in cavity prevention include the use of fluorescent light to detect the development of cavities long before they can be detected by traditional means, such as x-rays or dental exam. Researchers are also working on development of a “smart filling” that releases fluoride slowly over time around fillings and adjacent teeth.
Healthy Snacks
Here is a list of snacks that are healthy, and meet guidelines for classes with children who have either a gluten or nut allergy. Gluten and nut-free snacks
Flour tortillas 8 oz. Low-fat cream cheese 1 package dry Ranch-style dressing mix Sliced deli ham Favorite salsa
Preparation:
Soften cream cheese and mix with 1/2 package dry ranch-style dressing mix. Spread cream cheese mixture on tortilla. Lay a slice of deli ham on the tortilla and roll it up. Cut into pinwheels. Dip in your favorite salsa.
Play it Safe -- take a quiz on how to be safe while doing your favorite activity
Get the Buzz on Scuzz -- learn how and when to wash your hands
Hoover Health Notifications
Required immunizations
All students must present evidence of immunizations in compliance with the requirements of Mass. General laws, Ch. 76, Sec. 1, which specifically prohibits admitting a student to school without a physician's certificate showing that the child has been successfully immunized against Measles/Mumps/Rubella, Polio, Hepatitis B, Diptheria/Tetanus/Pertussis, Haemophilus Influenza type B (HIB), and Varicella, unless religious or medical exemptions apply.
Children who are not fully immunized against these vaccine-preventable illnesses are not allowed to attend school. A physical exam with lead screening is required upon entering Kindergarten.
