The Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation is making it cool to drink water at school. Why? Because drinking water after eating helps wash away food and bacteria that lead to cavities. Cavities are 100% preventable, and yet it’s reported that three in 10 school children have missed school due to an oral health problem.

The Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation started its Cool Water Program™ to help kids replace sugary beverages like soda, juice, and sports drinks with a healthy alternative. By drinking water throughout the school day, kids can keep their teeth strong and healthy, combat obesity, and increase their energy levels.

Cool Water Program Successes and Accomplishments

So, how does it work? Our Foundation provides grants to a number of schools across Wisconsin based on criteria for selection. During the summer, we replace one of the school’s existing drinking fountains with a new water fountain and bottle filling station. Then, in the Fall, we also donate reusable water bottles and, of course, toothbrushes to all students and staff to celebrate the new installation.

The Foundation closed the inaugural 2019 application at the end of March, and by the next month had chosen 20 Wisconsin schools to receive the grant. We kicked off the Cool Water Program delivery at Al Behrman Elementary in Baraboo, Wisconsin, launching the Program at 19 more schools before the year’s end. We visited Wilson Elementary in West Allis, Howe Elementary in Green Bay, Arcadia School District’s elementary school, Howe School in Wisconsin Rapids, and more. Click here for a full list of the 2019 Cool Water Recipients.

Selection Criteria for Our Cool Water Program

Is your school next? Apply to be a part of our Foundation’s Cool Water Program.

Preference is given to schools in a community with optimally fluoridated water. Additionally, schools without water fountain and bottle filling stations already installed are also given preference. Selection is based on the most creative and impactful implementation plan to encourage students and staff to drink more water. Schools should also have a free-and-reduced lunch rate of 40% or higher.

We are accepting applications February 3, 2020 through April 30th, 2020. Click here for details and contact information.

Warm up this winter with this delicious soup recipe. It’s not only satisfying, but it’s also packed full of good-for-your-teeth veggies like carrots, celery, and spinach.

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, thickly sliced
• 1 large onion, coarsely chopped
• 1 stalk celery, coarsely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
• 3 sprigs fresh oregano
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Black pepper to taste
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 5 cups chicken or vegetable stock  
• 4 cups baby spinach, stems removed

Directions:

1. In a pot, heat olive oil.
2. Add carrots, onion, celery, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper to hot oil. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring often, until vegetables look softened.
3. On a plate, mash half of the beans, then add them to the vegetables. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
4. Add remaining beans to pot and stir well.
5. Stir in chicken or vegetable stock and bring to boil.
6. Lower heat, partially cover with lid, and simmer for 20 minutes.
7. Discard oregano sprigs.
8. Add additional salt and pepper to taste.
9. Mix in spinach and simmer for another 2 minutes.
10. Remove from heat, serve, and enjoy!

Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered what the white spots on your teeth are from? You’re not alone.

While many people want white teeth, this coloration is different than having “pearly whites.” It often shows up as spots, marks, or stripes, and there are a few reasons for their appearance—which your dentist will be happy to talk about.

Fluorosis — Fluorosis commonly appears as discolored lines across the middle or bottom of teeth. Usually kids get this from using too much toothpaste, resulting in excess fluoride on the teeth. According to the American Dental Association, kids are susceptible to fluorosis until the age of eight at the end of their teeth’s development. This is because once teeth break through the gums, you cannot develop fluorosis. Keeping an eye on their fluoride intake is important. Your dentist can help you determine the proper amount of fluoride for your child.

Many things, including consuming well water, can play a role in the development of fluorosis. The white marks can stay on your teeth for as long as you have them. Luckily, the white marks on your teeth usually have no effect on teeth health, and they may even be more resistant against decay.

Enamel Hypoplasia — This means you have less enamel on your teeth than the typical person,  often due to nutritional deficiencies. People living with celiac disease are no strangers to hypoplasia, as they struggle to absorb nutrients through their digestive system. Premature babies are also susceptible. Enamel hypoplasia can start as white spots on teeth, pits, and fissures. These areas are extremely vulnerable to bacteria and decay. Treatment for enamel hypoplasia can include sealants, fillings, and crowns, and in some cases, extractions.

Plaque — Excess plaque in the mouth can lead to many negative outcomes. That’s why we brush our teeth after we eat so that we can remove harmful bacteria and plaque. But, people with poor oral hygiene and individuals with braces are more likely to experience plaque buildup. This can lead to demineralization of the teeth, which means that the plaque eats away the minerals that make up our teeth. Demineralization can be reversed with good oral hygiene habits and regular dentist visits. To find a dentist in your area, click here.

Medications — Antibiotics such as tetracycline and doxycycline have been known to discolor the teeth of children, as do things like antihistamines, high blood pressure medications, and certain mouth rinses. Click here to learn more about medications and the mouth.

Dry mouth — Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth can have a handful of oral health implications, one of which can lead to demineralization. When a mouth is dry from certain medications or sleeping habits, it can result in a lack of saliva. Saliva is essential in keeping teeth free from food and bacteria. We can thank saliva for transporting calcium and other tooth-supporting vitamins and minerals. When there is a lack of saliva, plaque is able to build up. Additionally, teeth can begin to dry out and form those pesky white spots.

So, what can we do about the white marks on our teeth? First, consult your dentist. Your oral health provider will ask you questions about your health history, oral maintenance habits, and diet to determine the cause for teeth discoloration. From there, they can help you find the best solution to meet your needs.

Make sure you’re brushing your teeth twice a dayand flossing regularly. This simple process does a lot of good for both your overall and oral health.

For more oral health answers, visit our blog. | To find a dentist in your area, use our search tool.