The Tooth Fairy is Coming to Parkway!

The Tooth Fairy is coming to all Parkway elementary schools! In an effort to make dental health fun and also support the Parkway Oral Health project, Parkway nurses are offering the following opportunities for all Parkway students.

1. Request a Tooth Fairy pillow so you are ready at home whenever the tooth fairy comes to visit! This handmade pillow keeps the tooth safe and snug. Limited quantities available. (Suggested donation of $20)
   
   

2. Did your child or grandchild recently lose a tooth? Request a Tooth Fairy letter to be sent to them to at school. (Suggested donation of $10)
   
   

3. Make any gift to the Parkway Oral Health fund (any donation amount is appreciated and accepted).
   
   

What is the Parkway Oral Health Project?

Many Parkway students are living with poor oral health, including cavities and oral infections. We know that oral health is an important part of overall wellness. In order to help ensure that all students in Parkway have access to necessary dental care, the Parkway Oral Health Fund has been established to help students who need financial assistance in order to get needed dental care. To this end, the Parkway community is invited to help support this fund.

Parkway partners with Comtrea, a Federally Qualified Health Center, to provide dental screenings and oral health treatment for those students without a dental home in all of our elementary schools and the Early Childhood Center. Currently, Comtrea has put these services on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay (cavities) is one of the most common chronic conditions of childhood in the United States. Untreated tooth decay can cause pain and infections that may lead to problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning. It is estimated that 1 out of 5 of children ages 5-11 have at least one cavity.  The good news is that we can prevent tooth decay with fluoride, daily brushing and regular visits to the dentist.  

If you have questions about the Parkway Oral Health Project, please email toothfairy@parkwayschools.net or call Diane Brown, Director of Health Services, at 314-415-5278.