Big Think Re-imagines Delta Dental Health Theater

The design firm Big Think, Inc. recently reworked the ,b>Delta Dental Health Theatre in St. Louis, Missouri. "Big Think transformed our educational theatre into an interactive children's museum," said Shannon Woodcock, executive director of the theatre.

The Delta Dental Health Theatre was built 30 years ago to educate children on the importance of proper dental care. The experience centered on a 30-minute show, which encouraged children to brush and floss regularly as well as limit sweets and other decaying foods.

"We started by helping DDHT define who they were and who they wanted to be," explained Judy Leise, president of Big Think. "We then began work on redesigning the existing spaces and creating new experiences to engage visitors in the concepts of total wellness and healthy living."

The theater includes eight new interactive exhibits designed by Big Think:

Good Breath Bad Breath: Two existing characters, Tooth Wizard and Plaque Man, are recreated with scent-releasing mouths that children press to smell good and bad breath.

From Seed to Plant to Plate Mural: Children learn about the cycle of food. Pop-up doors provide interactivity and kids learn fun facts.

Snacky's Farmer's Market: Children play in a realistic farmer's market environment while learning about the value of coloring their plates with a variety of healthy foods.

Cardinal's Care Library: A tent was created for kids and families to read books about health and play with educational puzzles

Dental Health Area: Children practice their new skills brushing teeth.

Dress Up Area: Children dress up as a farmer, chef and dentist, or for the royally inspired, a king and queen. Kids can even try out a child sized dental chair.

Theatre: New AV technology was installed to create an up to date viewing experience.

Obstacle course and fitness area for special events: Children are taught the importance of moving their bodies for no less than an hour a day in a fun and engaging way.

Big Think also redesigned the facility's offices creating working space for administrative offices and storage. The theater's popular giant teeth, which are considered a St. Louis legend by many, were preserved.

"St. Louis has one of the highest rates of childhood diabetes, obesity and tooth decay," said Woodcock. The more we can educate our children and families, the better off our community will be."

Big Think continues to work with DDHT as they plan their next phase of expansion.