![\"Camp](\"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/Camp-Courant-team-300x212.jpg\")
\u201cOral disease is rampant,\u201d says Redford-Badwal. \u201cDental cavities are the single most common childhood disease in the nation, and are five-times more common than asthma.\u201d<\/p>\n
In fact, according to Redford-Badwal three times more children are in need of dental services than medical services. Also, for an estimated nearly 5 million children tooth decay can be severe enough to interfere with daily eating and other activities, especially for those in inner cities who may be more likely impacted.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor all children we want to ensure that their oral needs are examined and assessed annually and to alert parents of any of their children\u2019s dental needs,\u201d says Redford-Badwal. \u201cIf we see something at Camp Courant that would require immediate dental attention we alert the camp’s nurse who personally contact\u2019s the parent with our findings and recommendation.\u201d<\/p>\n
Hartford\u2019s historic Camp Courant is the largest free summer camp in the nation and has been in existence for more than 120 years. It was founded by employees of the newspaper who wanted to make a difference for the children of the city. It now serves more than 1,000 campers every summer for six weeks.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt feels great to help give back while also raising awareness of the importance of dental health that may be a gift of a lifetime to avoid future dental issues,\u201d says Redford-Badwal.<\/p>\n
She adds: \u201cTo all the campers out there both young and old, don\u2019t forget to brush twice a day, remember to floss, and visit your dentist regularly to keep smiling bright.\u201d<\/p>\n