Free dental, wellness services for teens March 17 in Cd'A

HAYDEN — Panhandle Health District is hosting its sixth annual Teen Dental Party in the Lakes Magnet Middle School cafeteria Thursday from 3-6:30 p.m.

This year, PHD is expanding the event through collaboration with local organizations to include comprehensive wellness services in a fun, party-like setting. Participating middle- and high-school-aged youth can receive free vision and dental screenings, fluoride varnish, sealants and take-home supplies.

Local organizations from around Kootenai County will be hosting health-related activities and providing information on mental health, tobacco cessation, nutrition, money management and other topics of interest to teens.

Other services and activities include safe technology use, an impaired driving obstacle course, community involvement opportunities, door prizes and more. Spirit Lake Police Department's explosives detection dog, Shade, will be giving a demonstration at 3:30 p.m.

According to county health rankings, one in every six people living in Kootenai County are uninsured. By local organizations providing dental, vision and wellness services at no cost, many teens are able to receive much-needed preventative care. Typically, dental services cost up to $500 per person.

Dental appointments are recommended. Call PHD's Oral Health Program coordinator at 415-5143 to secure a time for these services. Space is limited.

Lakes Magnet Middle School is located at 930 N. 15th St., Coeur d'Alene.