NASCAR puts spotlight on kids' oral health

The Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina may not seem a likely spot to think about oral health, but younger NASCAR fans at the March 12 SpeedFest will learn how to improve their oral health and score free oral health kits.

SpeedFest is an appreciation day for NASCAR fans, and organizers expect about 7,000 area children to enjoy the festivities. The SpeedFest kits include a card with oral health tips, along with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and Henry Schein dental floss. And during the racing season, NASCAR fans can cheer on driver No. 16 Greg Biffle, whose 3M car and uniform also will sport the Give Kids A Smile, 3M, and Henry Schein Cares logos.

In a related event, on October 15 volunteer dentists will give underserved children free dental evaluations, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants at the Charlotte Motor Speedway's Kid Zone. Organizers 3M ESPE Dental and Henry Schein Cares will sponsor a tent for volunteer dentists and other dental team volunteers to provide the free services and educate children about good oral health habits. Children will receive digital x-rays embedded in a wristband as their badge of honor for participating.

"In addition to educating children at SpeedFest, we are looking forward to October when we will help volunteer dentists treat children from low-income families," said John Stefanick, director of industry and professional relations for 3M ESPE Dental. "We will literally give a smile to thousands of children from Charlotte and surrounding areas."