Give Kids A Smile Day: Free Dental Services for Children
February 2, 2018 · KidzDent.com plus Nearly 100 more Participating New Jersey Dentists · New Jersey Dental Association · New Jersey Pediatric Dentists
The Give Kids A Smile program, launched nationally by the American Dental Association in 2003, has given free oral health services to more than 5 million underserved children. Held on the first Friday in February, this one-day event provides free services by approximately 10,000 dentists along with 30,000 other dental team members.
GKAS events are intended to be touch points for children who do not receive dental care, for whatever reason. In New Jersey, more than 100 dental practices and clinics have participated through the Give Kids A Smile New Jersey program, in conjunction with the New Jersey Dental Association and the American Dental Association Foundation.
The sixteenth annual Give Kids A Smile New Jersey Day is Friday, February 2, 2018. To enroll your child, contact a participating dentist.
In most cases, the child will receive a dental check-up, followed by a cleaning, fluoride treatment or sealants. Not all services are provided at each location. If you child has decayed teeth, the dentist may provide fillings or perform extractions and other treatment as needed. If your child is in pain or you know he or she has a cavity, be sure to mention this when making your appointment.
Give Kids A Smile NJ also works with the NJ Association of Orthodontists to provide referrals to children who need braces. It is also supported by Colgate, Delta Dental of New Jersey and Henry Schein Dental.
The ultimate goal for the Give Kids A Smile program should be to establish a dental home for these children — in other words, provide continuity of care.