A sample Seal Dane setup in a classroom. [View larger]

Photo of an exam. [View larger]

Further examination. [View larger]

Applying the sealant. [View larger]

Another happy patient. [View larger]

"Seal Dane" is a school-based dental sealant program designed to provide dental sealants to targeted elementary students in Madison and Dane County schools who have not received preventive dental care due to family financial limitations. "Seal Dane" provides free dental sealants to eligible children and is designed to also raise parent, teacher and child awareness of the importance of dental health and the effectiveness of sealants.

Dental sealants are shaded plastic protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the permanent molars (back teeth). The sealants act like a shield to keep the crevices of these teeth free from bacteria that cause tooth decay (cavities). Studies have shown that teeth with sealants may remain 90-100% free of decay on sealed surfaces.

The program involves taking portable dental equipment into the schools to perform oral screenings and placing sealants on the teeth of children in need. Volunteer dentists perform dental screenings and then the sealants are placed on the teeth by a dental hygienist.

Targeted schools for the project are those schools with the greatest percentage of children on free and reduced lunch.

Project funding is provided by Meriter Health Services, and is administered through Public Health Madison Dane County. If you have questions or would like more information about the "Seal Dane" Program, please contact Loree Pierce RDH, Seal Dane Coordinator (242-6414) or Marlene Manning RDH, Dane County Dental Health Coordinator at (608) 242-6510.