The Oral Hygiene Initiative

Healthy smiles start in the classroom.

A simple school program that teaches children the habits that prevent tooth decay, and shows them how much sugar hides in the drinks they buy every day.

Photo: students with their OHI-Box toothbrushes
The OHI-Box

Five months, one box, lasting habits

Each classroom receives everything a teacher needs to run a five-month oral health curriculum, with one activity a month and materials to send home.

One activity a monthFive months of lessonsShort, hands-on classroom activities that build brushing habits and teach children how sugary drinks affect their teeth.

What’s in the box

  • A monthly lesson and activity for the teacher
  • Educational materials for the classroom
  • Toothbrushes and toothpaste for every child
  • Letters and tips for parents, so the habits continue at home
Rethink Your Drink

How many sugar cubes are in that soda?

Our sugar boards and soda posters line up everyday drinks next to the sugar they contain. Children see it once and remember it every time they reach for a bottle.

Image: Rethink Your Drink poster
Where we are

In classrooms on both sides of the border

Ongoing

Jesus Garcia Elementary, Rosarito, Mexico

Seven classrooms in grades 1, 3 and 5 are working through the OHI-Box, with local dentists offering discounted treatment to families.

August 6, 2026

Bocatorito school, Bocas del Toro, Panama

With Ayuda International, we brought fluoride, oral health supplies and our sugar posters by boat to about 65 children in a community with no road access.

Bring OHI to your school

Teachers and principals: tell us about your classrooms and we’ll help you get started.

Contact us

Adopt a classroom

Rotary clubs can bring the OHI-Box to a school in their own community or partner with a club across a border.

Adopt a classroom

Volunteer your skills

Dentists, hygienists and health professionals can visit classrooms or offer care to families.

Serve with Ayuda International