Joleyn McClemons arrived at Evans Community School today with 2,400 toothbrushes to give away to Evans’ students.
Thanks to McClemons, an employee with the dental benefits innovator DentaQuest, the students also learned about oral health care — such as how many times they should brush each day, and for how long; the dangers lurking in energy drinks; and that xylitol, a common ingredient in sugar-free gum, has anti-bacterial qualities. “If you can’t get to your toothbrush, grab a piece of sugar-free gum,” McClemons shared.
In addition to toothbrushes, McClemons broughts lots of props, including a dragon with BIG TEETH and over-sized dice that the students rolled to answer questions and win mini toothbrush erasers.
Marklyne Joachim (left), health ambassador for the Student Leadership Council, with Joleyn McClemons from DentaQuest
McClemons said there were some very touching moments. One student was happy to be able to take a few extra toothbrushes for his family. Another shared that in his 17 years, he had never been to the dentist.
“Today, I have no doubt that the students at Evans will be sharing what they learned today with their families,” McClemons said. “We hope to see greater rates of youth accessing dental care in the Pine Hills community.”
