SAN ANTONIO — Scientists at The University of Texas at San Antonio Health Science Center’s School of Dentistry are tackling one of South Texas’ biggest health challenges: childhood tooth decay.
With some of the nation’s highest cavity rates and a low dentist-to-patient ratio, the team is launching a school-based initiative to teach children preventive oral care.
The two-year project, led by Yvonne Buischi, DDS, PhD, professor in the Department of Periodontics, and a team of co-investigators, aims to turn elementary school teachers into “oral health champions” for students aged 5 to 10. Colgate-Palmolive is funding the study.
“Prevention is our most powerful tool,” said Buischi. “By reaching children early, we can change the trajectory of oral health for an entire generation.”
Teachers will be trained through in-person sessions, live online classes, or self-directed online modules. The curriculum covers cavities, gum disease, and the connection between oral and overall health.
Educators will also participate in hands-on demonstrations and receive bilingual resources, lesson plans, and classroom materials.
The program will recruit 150 teachers across South Texas, monitoring their knowledge before training and at intervals up to 12 months afterward. Refresher seminars will allow teachers to share experiences and refine their skills.
Teachers are seen as ideal partners because of their daily contact with students and close ties to families. “With the right support, they can help instill habits that last a lifetime,” said Natalia Kajimoto, DDS, Ms, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Periodontics.
Beyond classrooms, the initiative aims to influence families and communities. Teachers who identify urgent dental needs can refer students to UTSA’s School of Dentistry, a safety-net provider for the region.
By 2027, organizers expect to have trained at least 150 teachers, reaching thousands of children with preventive education that could improve lifelong oral health.
“Every child deserves to grow up free from preventable pain and disease,” Buischi said. “By empowering teachers, we are giving communities the tools to build a healthier future.”
