campus news
The goals of Give Kids a Smile are two-fold: to provide children with access to critical oral health care services and to show them that visiting the dentist can be fun. Photo: Cass McAllister
By SARAH SMYKOWSKI
Published February 14, 2025
More than 100 children received free dental care and education during the School of Dental Medicine’s annual Give Kids a Smile event on Feb 7. The dental school partnered with the SUNY Erie Dental Hygiene Program to provide preschool and elementary school children with comprehensive oral exams, screenings, fluoride varnishes and operative care that included fillings, sealants, X-rays and extractions.
Give Kids a Smile is a nationwide initiative sponsored by the American Dental Association (ADA). Held on the first Friday of February, the event kicks off National Children’s Dental Health Month and provides underserved children with access to quality oral health care.
“Good oral health care is essential to a child’s overall well-being, but many children face barriers to getting the care they need,” said Meelin Dian Chin Kit-Wells, clinical associate professor in the Department of Pediatric and Community Dentistry, who coordinated the event. “The goals of Give Kids a Smile are two-fold: to provide children with access to critical oral health care services and to show them that visiting the dentist can be fun.”
More than 100 children received free dental care and education during the School of Dental Medicine’s annual Give Kids a Smile event on Feb 7. Photo: Cass McAllister
Embracing the theme “Be our Guest for Healthy Smiles,” a nod to a popular Disney movie, the dental team gave their young VIPs the royal treatment in the clinics and beyond. Interactive demonstrations included “Dress Up Like a Dentist,” colorful props to practice proper brushing and flossing, and special visits from Princess Belle and the Tooth Fairy.
Seeing the children’s beaming smiles created a sense of pride and purpose for the many students, residents and faculty members who took part in the event.
“It was rewarding to see kids having fun while learning good oral health habits,” said Joanne Tan, a first-year dental resident in the Department of Pediatric and Community Dentistry. “It’s important that we emphasize preventive methods to families while also creating good relationships with their dental team.”
Give Kids a Smile is sponsored by the ADA and Colgate. This year’s local sponsors included the Eighth District Dental Society, Fidelis Care, Colvin Cleaners and Patterson Dental.