ABCD STORIES FROM SPOKANE

The following comes from Kirby Olson, a Family Service Coordinator, at Head Start:
I remember when I first had a family who enrolled their child in ABCD when the baby was just a few months old. They went to the dentist when the baby had her first two teeth and have gone regularly for the past 4 years. The family now has a second baby who is enrolled in ABCD and also has regular dental visits. The fact that amazes Kirby is that the family is still seeing the SAME dentist these several years later.

Kirby's families begin seeing the dentists when the children are very little. They see the dentists in a positive light because they are used to going to the dental office since infancy, and are used to the protocol. There is no fear and the children look forward to their dental office surprises.

The dentists spend a lot of time educating the parents as to tooth-brushing, healthy snacks, examinations, and the importance of regular visits. Parents are impressed. It is obvious that the dentists believe in this program.


Parent focus group observations:

When I first took my oldest boy to the dentist, after he joined ABCD, I learned how awful his teeth were. He was 3 years old, was complaining of pain, and had to go to the hospital to have nearly all his teeth capped or pulled. His younger brother and sister have had great teeth--I guess it was because I learned from the experiences shared with my oldest son. I am grateful my younger kids didn't have to go through the same pain and poor teeth. I appreciate my dentist teaching me what and what-not to do.

I regret not knowing about ABCD and early visits to the dentist. My daughter was nearly 3 before a WIC worker told me about ABCD. If I had taken her to the dentist from the time she had her first teeth, she would have avoided having to have her teeth fixed. Why? Because I would have learned how to PREVENT tooth decay. I was a new mom and did not know what to do about keeping her teeth free of decay and fillings.

I tried and tried to find a dentist that would take my kids' medical coupons. None would. Finally, one dentist's office told me if I signed them up for ABCD, they would see them. She's a good dentist, too, not just someone who sees "welfare"people." I like the good care, nice office women, the prizes they give my kids, and the reminders for return visits.