Community Corner

San Mateo County's 'Give Kids a Smile Day' Offers Free Dental Care for Low-Income Children

Several county dentists will participate in Give Kids A Smile Day, a one-day event that will offer low-income children free services such as oral exams and cleanings.

By Bay City News: 

In honor of February being National Children's Dental Health Month, San Mateo County dentists will offer free dental services to low-income children ages 1 to 18, this Friday on Give Kids a Smile Day.

 Several county dentists will participate in Give Kids A Smile Day, a one-day event that will offer low-income children free services such as oral exams, cleanings and fluoride treatments to children and families who might not otherwise be able to afford such procedures, according to the San Mateo County Health System.

 Sponsored by the San Mateo County Health System and San Mateo County Dental Society, this event began 10 years ago in San Mateo County. Howerver, nationally, Give Kids a Smile Day has helped nearly a half million children benefit from dentists donating their time to raise awareness on the importance of dental care, and to help parents who cannot afford proper dental care for their children.

 "Nearly one in four children, ages 2 to 11, has untreated cavities in their baby teeth," said Dr. Gracia Cua, San Mateo County Dental Society. "Untreated dental disease is painful and affects a child's physical, emotional, and social well-being, and yet it is preventable through brushing, flossing, proper diet and regular visits to the dentist," she said.

 Residents are urged to call San Mateo County Health coverage Unit at (650) 616-2002 to schedule an appointment.


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