Smiles will be bright and plentiful on Feb. 6 at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine as the school plays host to the seventh annual "Give Kids a Smile" day.
???Children ages one to 18 that do not have dental insurance coverage will receive free dental treatment at UB's Dental Clinic in Squire Hall on UB's South Campus.
???According to Heidi Schmidt, Outreach Coordinator for Pediatric & Community Dentistry, over 700 patients are normally treated on this day.
???"Give Kids a Smile" day is held in February because it is National Children's Dental Health Month, according to the American Dental Association Web site.
???The event will offer fluoride treatments, sealants and fillings, among many other treatments, according to Schmidt.
???"Funding is provided through the University at Buffalo's School of Dental Medicine and Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo, and by donations and volunteerism," Schmidt said.
???The planning for this event is extensive and takes place months prior to the actual date in order to prepare accordingly for the large showing of patients treated on this special day.
???"We work a lot with Buffalo Public Schools and local Head Start Centers to identify the children in need [of dental treatment]," Schmidt said.
???The children and families attending have welcomed "Give Kids a Smile" day with enormous support and participation, according to Schmidt.
???"We make it a day of fun for the children attending," Schmidt said. "It is a great opportunity for children in need to not only receive dental treatment, but to experience kindness and generosity from the dental profession."
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
