Lexington County, SC 02/27/2025 - With tooth decay remaining the leading chronic disease affecting children1 and nearly 20% of South Carolina students in kindergarten through third grade having untreated cavities,2 establishing essential oral health habits at an early age has never been more vital. Delta Dental of South Carolina, a leading dental benefits provider and non-profit organization, is tackling this issue through its popular Land of Smiles® dental education program, teaching kindergarten through third-grade students essential oral health habits. Since 2014, this free, interactive program – featuring superhero Captain Super Grin® and his sidekicks – has impacted 340,000 kids across 44 South Carolina counties through in-person and virtual elementary school performances. This winter and spring, an additional 20,000+ kids at 75+ schools statewide will participate, including those most recently at Sandhills Elementary School in Swansea, and Saluda River Academy for the Arts and East Point Academy Elementary School Campus in West Columbia.
The Land of Smiles® experience follows Captain Super Grin® as he defeats his nemesis, Caz CavitySM, with help from Terri Tooth FairySM and ToothpickSM. Students learn the importance of brushing teeth twice a day, flossing, using mouthwash, eating healthy foods and visiting the dentist regularly. The program includes an oral health curriculum that adheres to National and South Carolina Health Education Standards, and offers engaging, age-appropriate materials in English and Spanish. In addition, participating students receive free “smile bags” with a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss. Caregivers can also access an important educational program recap video at www.landofsmilesprogram.org by selecting “South Carolina” and then “Parent/Caregiver Information” from the top toolbar.
“Students show an average of 34% improvement in good oral health behavior and knowledge after seeing a performance, according to our pre- and post-show survey results,” said Stacy Harris, supervisor of community outreach at Delta Dental of South Carolina. “This is a very positive outcome as good dental habits developed at a young age lead to lifelong healthy smiles.”
Offered at no cost by Delta Dental of South Carolina, the program reaches many high-need schools, where more than 40% have at least 70% of students enrolled in free and reduced lunch programs. Educators can request an in-person or virtual show by emailing Schools@NationalTheatre.com or visiting www.landofsmilesprogram.org.
