Delta Dental teaches children oral health, vision health and wellness
Published 11:38 pm Monday, October 26, 2026
Improving health starts with education and prevention. To help build health habits early, Delta Dental of Missouri – a nonprofit dental and vision benefits provider committed to improving oral and overall health – launched its new, turbocharged Land of Smiles®: The Grin Prix program. Through in-person and virtual performances, the program will reach more than 23,500 Missouri children this fall, including 925 students at Parkview Elementary School, Loftus Early Childhood Center and Washington Elementary School in Sedalia.
The program takes students in kindergarten through third grade on a high-speed adventure with Captain Super Grin®, Terri Tooth Fairy® and their talking racecar companion, Peepers, as they defeat Cazzidy Cavity. Students learn the importance of brushing twice a day, flossing, healthy eating, regular dentist visits and vision care. Each child receives a free Smile Bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss, helping reinforce healthy habits at home. The program also includes a standards-aligned classroom oral health curriculum available in English and Spanish.
“We’re always looking for new ways to make health education engaging and memorable for students,” said Stacy Harris, executive director of community impact for Delta Dental of Missouri. “The Grin Prix brings these important lessons to life through interactive storytelling, helping children develop habits that support their health now and in the future.”
Since 2002, Delta Dental of Missouri’s award-winning Land of Smiles® program has reached 1.2 million pre-K through third-grade students across 113 Missouri counties. Last year alone, the program impacted more than 60,000 students at 307 schools, with surveys showing significant gains in oral health knowledge and habits.
Land of Smiles®: The Grin Prix is offered at no cost. Schools interested in scheduling a performance can visit LandofSmilesMO.org or email Schools@NationalTheatre.com.
Release courtesy of Delta Dental.
