UB's Dental School held its fifth annual Give Kids a Smile Day on Friday, providing disadvantaged children an educational and entertaining opportunity for free dental healthcare.
"Children who don't have the ability or opportunity to receive dental care are given it today for free," said Katrina Zambron, a dental hygienist.
The program is held in honor of National Children's Dental Health Month. It's sponsored by Crest and run by 250 volunteers from the Dental School, Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo and the Equal Opportunity Center's Dental Assistant Program.
"While at the program all children will receive a dental exam, fluoride treatment, sealants, X-rays and oral hygiene instructions," Zambron said. "They will also be given a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss and a note to their parents if additional treatment is needed."
However, the trip for most kids consisted of more than a dental checkup - a variety of activities and hands-on games were available as well. The most elaborate activity was the Teddy Bear Clinic, where children could play games that taught lessons on health and safety.
"The Teddy Bear Clinic is a wonderful way for kids to leave the monotonousness of the dental rooms and have fun," said volunteer Dr. Tracie Hill.
Entrance into the 2nd Annual Teddy Bear Clinic was an educational game in itself, as kids navigated a system of tunnels.
"'Eat Well, Play Well' is our theme this year. We're trying to have children not only take healthy measures with their teeth, but their whole body," said Dr. Dian Wells, organizer of Give Kids a Smile Day.
This year UB saw over 800 children in attendance, compared to last year's 600.
Starting at Germ City, children met Germy the Frog, who placed germs (in the form of chalk) on their hands. Black lights were then used to emphasize the need for proper hand washing.
"As they exit Germ City, they are directed on how to wash their hands properly and then are brought back into Germ City and shown how their germs are all gone," Hill said.
The Dental Care Center was another activity where kids had the chance to dress up as dentists and practice how to properly brush their teeth on dolls. Volunteers dressed up as clowns, bears and even popular cartoon characters to help kids with the activities.
"I love Scooby Doo," said J. Saunders Jr., a four-year-old from Bethel-Head Start Pre-School.
Kids also learned about the importance of drinking milk and other milk products during a visit from the Dairy Princess.
"It's really fun for the kids. It looks like they are just playing games but they are actually learning too," Hill said. "The dental exams really help them familiarize with the whole dental process, while the Teddy Bear Clinic gives them something fun and educational to do. It is really just a wonderful program that helps so many children... the smiles on their faces is what makes this day so fun."
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
