In celebration of National Children's Dental Health Month, Wake County Public Health is teaming up with Wake County Public Libraries to launch a new program that gives kids something to smile about.

Books & Smiles promotes the importance of the three B's before bedtime: brush, book and bed. It encourages families to incorporate good dental hygiene habits into nightly routines, fostering both healthy teeth and a love for reading.

“By combining the joy of storytelling with fun oral health practices, Books & Smiles can create lasting habits that contribute to the overall well-being of our youngest residents,” said Wake County Board of Commissioners Chair Shinica Thomas. “The free series is also a great opportunity for families to find connections to and education on dental care through Wake County’s Smiles at Sunnybrook program.”

Smiles at Sunnybrook is a Wake County program that provides free dental care to children ages 0-20 years old who do not have insurance.

Throughout February, Books & Smiles will rotate to six library locations, offering families the opportunity to participate in these fun storytime programs:

• Monday, Feb. 5, at 3 p.m.
  Wake Forest Community Library, 400 E. Holding Ave., Wake Forest
• Tuesday, Feb. 6, at 4 p.m.
  Fuquay-Varina Community Library, 271 Bramblehill Drive, Fuquay-Varina
• Friday, Feb. 9, at 11 a.m.
  Richard B. Harrison Community Library, 1313 New Bern Ave., Raleigh
• Monday, Feb. 19, at 11:30 a.m.
  Green Road Community Library, 4101 Green Road, Raleigh
• Tuesday, Feb. 20, at 11 a.m.
  Southgate Community Library, 1601-14 Crosslink Road, Raleigh
• Thursday, Feb. 22, at 11:30 a.m.
  Zebulon Community Library, 1000 Dogwood Drive, Zebulon
   

“Our libraries are excited to collaborate with the community and Wake County’s dental programs to make Books & Smiles a memorable and impactful experience for families,” said Wake County Deputy Library Director Ann Burlingame. “Not only will these healthy habits make a difference in the oral health of kids, but they’ll also create a fun reading experience for families as they get ready for bed each night.”

Each participating child will receive a special "Books & Smiles" kit, which includes a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental-themed goodies to take home. Additionally, families will have access to informative materials and resources on maintaining oral health.

The Book & Smiles program is based on the American Academy of Pediatrics campaign Brush, Book, Bed, that helps parents establish a nighttime routine for their children.

For more information about Books & Smiles and to stay updated on the schedule of events, please visit wake.gov/smiles.

Smiles at Sunnybrook
Smiles at Sunnybrook is a grant-funded initiative through the NC Office of Rural Health. Since October 2017, the program has helped more than 5,600 children in our community. The clinics offer no-cost exams, cleanings, fluoride applications, X-rays and education.

All visits to Smiles at Sunnybrook are by appointment only. Visits can be scheduled by calling 919-250-4610 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

To learn more about Wake County’s dental clinics, visit wake.gov/smiles.