Science Never Sucks!

I taught good oral hygiene, tobacco and betal nut cessation in Bree's science class this morning. I was a little hesitant about teaching middle schoolers because the other hygienist didn't have such a good experience with them before. I was just hoping I wouldn't get any attitude or wise cracks. I think for the most part it went really well. Bree's class was very smart and attentive.
I thought it would be fun to disclose the plaque in their mouth with the red tablets and to also have them look at bacteria from their mouth using the microscopes. The kids had fun laughing at each other and their pink teeth as well as looking at slides of bacteria from their mouths. Did you know that you have over 300 strains of bacteria in your mouth? Gross, i know.
Another important topic I wanted to talk about was tobacco and betal nut cessation. I asked the class how many of them chew and I'd say that about half of them raised their hands. So slowly I listed all the reasons why betal nut and tobacco chewing was bad for them. I'm hoping that I got through to them. Its just hard to see them start a nasty habit like chewing at such a young age. Anyways, Thanks Bree for letting me come teach your class!