IRMO — Delta Dental of South Carolina is expanding its Land of Smiles dental education program to include preschoolers, helping young children develop strong oral health habits. This fall, more than 8,000 children from preschool through third grade are benefiting from the free, interactive program, which features superhero Captain Super Grin and her sidekicks through in-person and virtual performances. Students at Ballentine Elementary School and River Springs Elementary School were among the most recent participants.
The Land of Smiles experience follows Captain Super Grin as she defeats her nemesis, Caz Cavity, with assistance from Terri Tooth Fairy and Toothpick. Children learn the importance of brushing twice daily, flossing, using mouthwash, eating healthy foods, and visiting the dentist regularly. The program includes an oral health curriculum aligned with National and South Carolina Health Education Standards, with age-appropriate materials provided in both English and Spanish. Participating students receive free “smile bags” containing a toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss.
“Establishing essential oral health habits early on lays the foundation for lifelong healthy smiles — and this program plays a meaningful role in supporting that outcome,” said Stacy Harris, community impact program manager at Delta Dental of South Carolina.
Since 2014, Land of Smiles has reached 360,000 students across 44 South Carolina counties. Surveys conducted before and after the shows show a significant improvement in students’ oral health knowledge and behaviors. The expansion to preschoolers allows the program to have an impact at an even earlier age.
Elementary educators can schedule in-person or virtual performances by emailing [email protected] or visiting www.landofsmilesprogram.org. Preschool directors can request the virtual program by selecting “South Carolina” and then “Request Early Childhood Program” on the website.
For more information about Delta Dental of South Carolina, visit www.DeltaDentalSC.com
