The Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation and Arizona PBS announced the winners of the inaugural Children’s Writing Contest, which is part of a larger “Healthy Smiles” campaign to promote good oral health to children across the state.

Through the program, kids in pre-K through third grade were invited to write and illustrate a story about having healthy teeth, gums and a great smile, a press release explained.

Among the first place winners was 2nd grader Elizabeth Beckstein of Scottsdale, who was awarded a PBS KIDS PlayPad Tablet and a Delta Dental gift basket with dental care items.

Submitted Photo

Pictured above is the cover of Beckstein's award-winning story.

Through the contest and a series of free events, the statewide campaign centered on boosting family involvement in good oral health practices, focusing on the importance of brushing twice a day, changing toothbrushes regularly and visiting the dentist twice a year, the release stated.

A series of free events were held from February to September in rural areas of the state, including Bouse, Bullhead City, Grand Canyon, Lake Havasu City, Parker, Prescott Valley, Safford, San Luis, Somerton, Tucson and Yuma. Each event featured PBS characters, educational crafts, activities, and giveaways for children up to age 8. Local dental professionals also offered free dental screenings and fluoride varnish treatments.