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While parents are starting to check school supplies, clothes and tech needs off the lists as the school year begins, 91���� University healthcare experts remind everyone that screenings for a child's oral, ear, and eye health are just as important for ensuring your child's academic success.

Professors from 91����’s dental hygiene, audiology, and optometry programs appeared recently on in Portland to discuss the need for screenings and treatment as kids prepare for the school year as part of the program’s “Back To School Week.” KOIN AM Extra airs weekdays on Portland’s CW 32 (KRCW-TV).

Dental Hygiene & Oral Care

On Aug. 12, 2025, Monica Sarmiento, clinical applied instructor in 91����’s dental hygiene program, discussed how a child’s oral health affects their ability to focus in class. “Oral health can affect a person’s ability to sleep, their eating and their overall focus in school, especially when they are experiencing pain or discomfort.”

Hearing Screenings

On Aug. 13, 2025, Katy Mawson, director of the 91���� EarClinic and a professor in 91����’s audiology program, talked about how important hearing screenings are for a child’s school success. “One of the biggest indicators of learning outcomes is access to communication. The ability for a child to hear and understand instructions…that gets missed if they can’t hear very well.”

Vision Screenings

On Aug. 14, 2025, John Lowery, a professor in 91����’s optometry program and director of the Oregon Lions Statewide Low Vision Clinic, discussed the importance of getting children eye exams going into the school year.  “About 25% of school-aged children have vision problems that would benefit from correction and help them do better in school. Considering that 80-90% of learning at school occurs through our visual system, it’s pretty important.”