The Hospital Foundation at Ministry Saint Mary’s Hospital in Rhinelander recently donated $5,000 to the Northwoods Dental Project (NDP). The NDP targets low-income, uninsured or underserved families. Funding will be used to purchase necessary supplies for the 2011-12 school year such as infant and child toothbrushes, fluoride varnish, cups, paper towels, disposable mirror heads and additional personal protective equipment such as masks and gloves. Educational materials to be used in centers such as books, puppet and magnetic tooth board will also be purchased.

Oral health prevention programs for poor, underserved and uninsured children are essential to decreasing oral health treatment needs, as well as promoting positive oral health. By bringing preventive programs to area schools, treatment needs will be decreased for those with no means or resources to obtain dental access. Tooth infections can affect a person’s overall health and wellbeing. Untreated tooth decay in children can lead to pain, poor nutrition, poor concentration, behavioral issues, lack of self-esteem and in severe cases, even death.

For more information about the Hospital Foundation at Ministry Saint Mary’s Hospital, or to make a donation, call Patty Fitzpatrick, coordinator Foundation and Volunteer Services, at (715) 361-2835.