Since 1985, Dr. Michael Hazuda, Jr. and his staff have volunteered to visit local schools to celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month. Then, over 10 years ago, Dr. Hazuda created a dental-themed ‘rock ‘n roll revue’ to entertain and educate the local elementary school children. Since that time, the “Dr. Mike & the Molars” show has taught many thousands of students from kindergarten to 5th grade about the importance of good oral hygiene, cavity prevention, healthy food choices and eating habits, and good behavior. Dr. Mike says, “The kids really remember our message of good health because it is presented in a fun, energetic, rock ‘n roll musical format!” The show has become one of the area’s most popular community service events.

Dr. Mike writes dental health themed song parodies set to the tunes of popular rock songs. He sings, karaoke-style, songs which have included “Loose Tooth Riot”, “Brushin’ La Teeth a Loca”, “Born To Eat Wild”, “Learnin’ USA”, and “Sugar, Sugar”! Julie, his wife, choreographs the dance routines for the office staff (“The Molars”) to compliment the music. When hiring office staff, Dr. Hazuda not only has to look for talented professionals, but also for those with a good sense of rhythm! Every year, Dr. Mike and his team begin the show with a fully-costumed opening theme that has included a Hawaiian Beach Party, Star Wars, Blue and Gold Football, and Pirates of the Caribbean! Special guests have included visits from the Tooth Fairy, the Cavity Creep, and YoUDee, the mascot from the University of Delaware. Students, staff and parents alike enjoy the shows which get more elaborate every year!

“The kids send us the cutest thank-you notes, and obviously get to exercise their artistic and creative writing muscles! “It always amazes me how much information they retain from our shows”, says Dr. Hazuda. We teach them about brushing, flossing, good nutrition, good behavior and working hard in school. But, mostly, we teach them to excel, and to be the best that they can be while making a positive difference in the world. Dr. Mike challenges the kids to be creative and have fun in whatever endeavors they choose along their journey in life. “We take what we do very seriously, but we have a lot of fun doing it as well!!”