🎯CURATOR ACADEMY

More Than a Smile

We use our mouths every day—to eat, talk, and even express emotions—but did you know dental health is linked to our overall well-being? A healthy mouth supports digestion, speech, and even heart health. This activity will explore how teeth connect to the rest of the body, careers in dentistry, and fascinating traditions from around the world.

Essential Knowledge

1. Real-World Dental Traditions:

   • In the U.S., the Tooth Fairy collects baby teeth. In Spain, Ratoncito Pérez (a small mouse) leaves gifts.

   • In Japan, children throw lower teeth on the roof and upper teeth under the floor for good luck.

2. How Oral Health Affects the Body:

   • Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart disease.

   • Missing teeth can make it hard to chew healthy foods like fruits and vegetables.

3. Careers in Dental Health:

   • Dentist: Treats cavities and cleans teeth.

   • Orthodontist: Straightens teeth with braces or retainers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Elementary School (K-4):

• Use a mirror to look at your teeth. What shapes do you see? What do they help you do?

• Draw a picture of your teeth and label the front teeth (for biting) and back teeth (for chewing).

Middle School (5-8):

• Research how sugary drinks affect teeth. Write down one habit that protects tooth enamel.

• Try saying “three fluffy frogs” with your lips covering your front teeth. How does it change the sound?

High School (9-12):

• Research how gum disease can lead to heart problems. Write a paragraph summarizing your findings.

• Compare dental care access in two countries and reflect on why it varies.

Tips for Success

• Let kids ask questions—what interests them about teeth?

• For younger kids, make it fun: Act out emotions and see how teeth help with smiling or frowning.

Skill Check

• Can they name 1-2 ways oral health affects the body?

• Can they describe one tradition or one dental career?

Why It Works

This activity shows kids that teeth are more than tools for chewing—they connect to health, culture, and careers. It inspires curiosity about their daily habits while encouraging meaningful discussions.

Download the Worksheet

⚡️QUICK WIN

Toothbrush Timer Trick: Make brushing fun by using a two-minute timer. Challenge your child to hum their favorite song while brushing, ensuring they brush for the full two minutes. This simple trick not only makes brushing more enjoyable but also helps them develop a consistent oral hygiene routine.

🎥 WATCH & THINK

📺 Watch Time: ~15 min | 🔗 Watch the Playlist

• 👄 10 Fun Facts About Your Mouth (6 min)

• 🪥 The Importance of Brushing (3 min)

• 🦷 The Evolution of Teeth (5 min)

📄 Critical Thinking Worksheet → Download Here

✔ Includes: Would You Rather, One-Minute Debates & a Bonus Challenge!

💎 RESOURCE ROUND-UP

• Resource Highlight: Explore the American Dental Association's Mouth Healthy website for kid-friendly resources including interactive games and informative videos about oral health.

• Quick Activity: Create a DIY toothpaste using baking soda and a few drops of peppermint oil. Discuss the importance of fluoride-free options and natural oral care.

• Question to Ask: "What do you think happens to your teeth if you don't brush them regularly?"

• Fun Fact: Did you know that the enamel on your teeth is the hardest substance in your body?

• Real-World Connection: Visit a local dental clinic or invite a dentist to speak about the importance of oral hygiene and the impact of diet on dental health.

✍️ TODAY’S WRITING CHALLENGE: The Power of a Smile

From the science of dental health to the social impact of a smile, this week’s prompts will get kids thinking about the role of teeth in their daily lives. Choose your grade level and start exploring:

📥 Download Materials:

• Elementary Prompts – Talking teeth, secret worlds and the Tooth Fairy

• Middle School Prompts – History of the toothbrush and shark teeth

• High School Prompts – Explore gum disease, advertising, and dental history

• Parent Evaluation Guide - Simple rubric for any grade

💡 Tip: Let your child choose the prompt that sparks their interest—it often leads to better writing!

👋 UNTIL NEXT TIME

"Every tooth in a man's head is more valuable than a diamond." – a quote from Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes