Local first graders get tooth kits

By Sandy Morris

All first grade students at Nancy Smith Elementary School recently received a free tooth decay kit through the Fantastic Teeth Fan Club.

Members of the Albany Masonic Lodge, represented by Robert Skelton, assembled, and delivered 50 dental hygiene kits to the school.

School nurse Lisa Russell taught a short lesson to the students about tooth care on Wednesday, Nov. 4.

Normally, local Masons present the kits in person, but because of COVID precautions, Russell took over this year’s distribution. 

“I read a book to the students about dental hygiene and stressed the importance of developing good habits so they would be able to have healthy permanent teeth,” said Russell.

NSES staff members also demonstrated flossing and brushing with the mouth/toothbrush model.

Russell said each student received parent information, a sand timer, and a travel bag with a toothbrush, dental floss, and toothpaste.

“The kids are always so excited to receive the kits,” said Russell. “They tell me throughout the school year how they are using them at home.”

The Fantastic Teeth Fan Club, sponsored by Masonic Home and School of Texas, strives to prevent suffering from toothaches, reduce missed school days due to dental problems, and cut costs for dental treatments.