Oklahoma City

Oral Surgery Specialists of Oklahoma has partnered with Project Save A Mouth in a bid to increase oral health awareness and practices. Dr. Robert Bryan and Dr. Jeremy Goodson officially launched their PSAM chapter on March 7, 2017. The program, which has gained support from over 100 local and national charities, companies, schools, and medical professionals, centers their aim at children, especially children who may not have access to dental hygiene essentials and health information.

According to the Oklahoma Oral Health Needs Assessment conducted in 2003 and the first statewide data of its kind, oral health in the state is poor. The study examined students in the third grade across the state and found that the prevalence of cavities in Oklahoma’s third graders was higher than that of any other state — 69.4%. Untreated tooth decay, at 40.2%, was also the highest rate in the nation. Although a slight decrease in untreated tooth decay has been reported in subsequent years, the percentage of cavities has increased to 71.5%. Tooth decay in children has a direct effect on their attendance in school and ability to succeed in their education. Nationally, tooth decay is the number one reason third graders miss school every year.

Tooth decay can cause a host of complications. Project Save A Mouth is focused on educating children in the hopes of establishing good oral hygiene practices and preventing dental issues. By hosting events within the local community, Project Save A Mouth aspires to promote the importance of a healthy smile for life.

The Oklahoma City PSAM coalition partners include, among many others, the Oklahoma State Department of Education, the Oklahoma Dental Association, and Mayor Mick Cornett. Through their support and the dedicated medical professionals who have joined the cause, the Oklahoma City chapter of PSAM has been able to reach thousands of local individuals and make a significant impact on their understanding of best dental hygiene practices and the importance of oral health on the rest of the body.