In recognition of Children’s Dental Health Month this February, uninsured Baltimore children without access to a dentist will be able to receive needed dental care at no cost during the Kool Smiles “Sharing Smiles” free care day, Feb. 22.
“While Kool Smiles is proud to provide quality, affordable dental care to families with various forms of insurance, including Medicaid, we alsorecognize that there are many children in our community who have no insurance and whose families cannot afford regular trips to the dentist,” said Dr. Todd Nichols, managing dental director at Kool Smiles.
If left untreated, dental decay can lead to pain, difficulty eating and chewing, and more serious infections – some of which can be life threatening.
“Children who do not have regular access to a dentist often exhibit advanced dental decay and their treatment needs are significant,” Dr. Nichols said. “We want to put a smile back on the faces of these children by getting them the dental care they need but cannot afford.”
Dental care will be provided to area children up to 18 years of age, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Feb. 22 at 2429 Frederick Ave. Available treatments will include dental exams, limited emergency care, extractions, fillings, and baby tooth root canals and crowns. Treatments will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis, and treatment offerings will be determined by the dentist.
In an effort to serve Baltimore children who are in the greatest need, eligibility will be limited to children who have no form of dental insurance. The Kool Smiles website provides more information on the Sharing Smiles free care day, including where children in need of dental care can find a nearby participating office. Those interested can visit the Sharing Smiles website at mykoolsmiles.com/sharingsmiles.