'Give Kids a Smile' in February |
| January 20, 2013 |
|
This February, Idaho dentists and their
staffs throughout the state will be providing free dental care to
uninsured children whose families are unable to
afford care as part of the 11th Annual "Give
Kids A Smile" program. Give Kids A Smile is a centerpiece program during the month of February, which is National Children’s Dental Health Month. Dentists and their staffs volunteer their time and services to provide cleanings, screenings, treatments, and education throughout Idaho and the United States. Idaho dentists treated more than 1,300 children during February of 2012 as part of the Give Kids A Smile program. Nearly one in four children, aged two to 11 years old have untreated cavities in their baby teeth, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Give Kids A Smile contributes significantly to improving the life of each child treated. “Too many children in our state live daily with pain due to poor oral health” said Dr. Jack Klure, Idaho State Dental Association President. “Give Kids A Smile is an excellent opportunity for us as dentists to provide some relief for many children that aren’t able to receive proper oral care any other time of the year.” In addition to the free dental services provided through Give Kids A Smile, the program also provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the significant level of untreated dental disease that occurs in Idaho and throughout the county. Good oral health is integral to our overall health. For children, these preventive services can make a significant difference in their young lives and save money by helping families avoid costly restorative treatments down the road. Hundreds of Idaho dentists, in virtually every community statewide, participate in the "Give Kids A Smile" program. Appointments are now being coordinated here in Idaho through the 2-1-1 Idaho CareLine. To register an eligible child and get an appointment scheduled, parents or guardians should call 2-1-1. |