This year’s “Give Kids a Smile” was a great success! The program was initially launched in 2003 to provide dental care to underserved children. Nationally, it was estimated that over 320,000 kids received care this year from almost 8,000 dentists as well as a large number of hygienists, assistants, and other staff. In Minnesota alone, it is estimated that over 5,000 children received care, many of whom may have had his/her first experience with a dentist.
I’m often asked when a child should first see a dentist. The ADA has recommended that a child be seen within the first 6 months of the child getting his/her first baby tooth and no later than the first birthday. We commonly see children at one year of age and it’s a great way to get these little ones accustomed to the dental office.
At Commerce Drive Dental, Dr. Clause, Dr. Kuryla, our staff, and I were able to participate and provide care that included dental cleanings, exams, dental education, fillings, sealants, and tooth removal. It was a very rewarding experience and great to see all the young, smiling faces!
Thank you to everyone that volunteered!
– from Dr. Jernberg