UB's School of Dental Medicine Offers Free Dental Care to Local Children During 'Give Kids A Smile'

For the 25th consecutive year, the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine is set to host its annual 'Give Kids A Smile' event, providing free dental care to local children.

 

Scheduled for Friday, February 6, the event will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Squire and Harriman halls on UB's South Campus.

 

Faculty and students will offer oral health screenings, fluoride treatments, and oral hygiene education to preschool and elementary school children.

 

Sponsored by the American Dental Association (ADA), 'Give Kids A Smile' kicks off National Children's Dental Health Month by providing essential dental services to underserved children and teaching them proper brushing and flossing techniques.

 

Since its national launch in 2003, the program has impacted over 9 million children nationwide, including thousands in Western New York.

 

Brett Chiquet, professor and chair of the Department of Pediatric and Community Dentistry, emphasized the event's significance: "Give Kids A Smile highlights the importance of prevention, education, and access to quality oral health care starting at a young age."

 

Participating children will receive X-rays, fluoride treatments, checkups, and cleanings.

 

Interactive educational activities will include brushing demonstrations with puppets, flossing simulations with Play-Doh and Legos, and the opportunity to dress up like a dentist.

 

A student DJ will entertain the visitors, and lunch will be provided.

 

At the end of the morning activities, children with a parent present may stay for free operative care, including fillings and extractions, from 1 to 4 p.m.

 

The morning educational activities will take place in Harriman Hall, while the treatments and cleanings will be conducted in Squire Hall.

 

For more information, contact the UB School of Dental Medicine.