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Give Kids a Smile
View a video of the commercial for Give Kids a Smile.
Local volunteer dentists are teaming up with dental professionals throughout Minnesota to provide their services, at no charge, to children whose families could otherwise not afford the care. The Minnesota Dental Association is sponsoring this unique outreach effort, called Give Kids a Smile. HealthPartners is also a partner in the program.
The free care will be provided on Friday, February 1 and Saturday, February 2, 2008 when thousands of dentists and other volunteers across the state open their offices and clinics.
This year marks the 6th consecutive year of Give Kids a Smile. In the past six years free dental care has been provided to more than 25,000 children in need.
Patients seeking appointments should be under the age of 18 and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. People interested in scheduling an appointment for their child may do so by calling United Way 211 (just dial 2-1-1) or the statewide toll-free number 1-800-543-7709. Information on specific services that will be provided will be outlined when an appointment is scheduled.
The care is offered to all children whose families don't have the means to pay for dental care, but an advance appointment is required. Care will range from general exams to fluoride treatments, dental sealants and fillings for cavities.
Research shows that tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease, affecting 50% of U.S. first graders. Nationally, more than one-half of children ages 6 to 8 have tooth decay; one third of which goes untreated.
In addition to HealthPartners, other Give Kids a Smile partners include the Minnesota Dental Association Foundation, Patterson Dental and 3M Espe Dental Products.
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