Hundreds of elementary school students have brighter smiles after receiving free preventive dental care.
More than 500 second graders from the Edgewood Independent School District attended two clinics held in February to coincide with National Children’s Dental Health Month.
One of the clinics took place on the American Dental Association’s “Give Kids a Smile Day,” which is the first Friday in February, and the second clinic took place on Valentine’s Day.
The second graders arrived by bus for screenings at UT Dentistry, the university’s dental practice, by dental students and residents.
“As dental students, we primarily treat adults. But with “Give Kids A Smile Day,” we are able to see 500 kids and learn how to work with children,” said Alma Barrera, a third-year dental student. “It’s about giving kids a positive experience and making sure they’re not afraid of the dentist. At the end of the day, we really want kids to be comfortable and confident about going to the dentist.”
Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas Inc. provided a $15,000 grant for the sealants and other dental materials used during these clinics.
This is the 18th year free dental care has been provided for Edgewood ISD students and over the years more than 10,000 students have attended the clinics.
Watch this video of the clinic.