Presenting For Moms in Recovery- Bringing Oral Health Education Into the Community
Recently, our Dental Clinic Director and Staff Dentist, Dr. Bradley, DMD, MPH, spent some time presenting for Moms in Recovery (MORE), a group that provides a safe space to mothers navigating recovery. The goal of the presentation: provide the group with oral health tips to better care for themselves and their children.
Partnering with Sam, the current dental extern with Red Logan Dental Clinic (RLDC), Dr. Bradley crafted a presentation aimed at practical, everyday tips focusing on what families could do at home. When asked what she hoped the presentation would accomplish, Dr. Bradley shared,
“I wanted to help the moms better understand oral health and why dentists give the recommendations they do.”
She hoped each participant would walk away with at least one or two ideas they would put into action. Practices like using disclosing tablets to help kids brush better at home or swapping out snacks for tooth-healthy alternatives. One of the biggest discussion points of the day? Water.
Dr. Bradley explained how staying hydrated supports overall oral health and helps to rinse away bacteria and food particles that contribute to dental issues. But not all water is the same; town tap water is regulated, but private well water isn’t—meaning fluoride levels and acidity can vary widely from home to home. In Vermont, parents with children under four can access free well-water testing, and both Vermont and New Hampshire offer clear guidance on their state websites for how to get well water tested. Just knowing what’s in your water can make a difference in protecting your family’s teeth!
We asked Dr. Bradley about her thoughts on the experience working with Moms In Recovery:
Q: What made you want to start doing the work with MORE?
A: “Bonnie reached out to connect with someone from our clinic, and it fit perfectly with our mission. Much of my presentation was pulled from previous talks I have given. Sam helped create slides focused on caring for kids, since he has more recent pediatric experience than I do, as RLDC only serves adults.”
Q: What did you learn from the participants?
A: “My experience reinforced that dentistry isn’t just what happens in the chair—it’s also about care at home and reaching those who want care but can’t get it. Outreach like this is essential.”
The moms who attended were eager to learn and deeply committed to caring for their kids and themselves. Meeting them where they are, in a space that feels safe and supportive, is exactly the kind of community connection that helps expand access, knowledge, and confidence around oral health. We’re grateful for the chance to partner with MORE and look forward to continuing to make care more accessible for everyone here in the Upper Valley.
The work we do relies on the support of our community to help us continue to create opportunities for education, access, and care for everyone who needs it. We hope that we can count on your continued support, especially this #GivingTuesday, as we prepare to raise $10,000 to support patient care costs and ensure that everyone here in the Upper Valley has the care they need. If you’re interested in making a contribution, click here.