“We are excited about today’s event, because it’s important for all of our students to understand the importance of oral care and how it affects overall health,” said Christine Medline, TCC’s nutrition educator.

The fair was designed for students in TCC’s nutrition, child nutrition and other health profession classes.

While the event offered information about flossing and brushing to maintain those pearly whites, it also dealt with more pressing issues, including the dangers of oral piercings and drug use, as well as health complications resulting from poor oral care.

For Heather Abrego, the Tooth Fair was an opportunity to learn more about Old Dominion University’s bachelor in dental hygiene program. Abrego will graduate from TCC in May with an associate of science degree. “I’m excited to be here to meet with students in the program, because I hope to join them in the fall,” she said.

Students also visited with community outreach educators Charlene Catto and Becky Keer to learn about the value of nutrition and breastfeeding.

The Tooth Fair featured practitioners from the Virginia Beach Health Department’s reserve medical corps. The group checked blood pressures and answered questions.