Effectiveness of a pilot program for nonclinical service learning in Louisiana head start

In an underserved parish in South Louisiana, a critical need for early childhood dental care was identified. This brief report describes a service-learning intervention that was developed, implemented and aimed at screening, educating, and improving access to dental care for children aged 3 to 6. The core services provided by the program include fluoride varnish application, dental screenings, oral health education, nutritional counseling, and parental engagement for 170 students. The primary goal was to build sustainable partnerships that ensured reciprocity between the community and the university that was involved. The objectives were to enhance access to care, advance oral health literacy, mitigate oral health disparities, and promote dental prevention strategies. Additionally, the program aimed to serve the community while offering healthcare students valuable experiential learning opportunities.