Giving children something to smile about
Special to the Daily News
Earlier this month, the United Way of Jasper County and the GRMC Mother-Child Wellness Program’s I-Smile Oral Health coordinator sponsored the Seventh Annual Give Kids a Smile Day.
As a result 25 uninsured children and youth received much-needed dental attention as a result of their participation. Dr. R.E. Mount and Dr. Andrew Jones of Associated Dentists and their staff, along with Dr. Brandi Mace and her staff, opened their hearts and doors to provide free dental care to children in kindergarten through 12th grade who otherwise might not have received treatment.
For some children, this was their first trip to the dentist, and for others, their first toothbrush. Each participant received a dental exam, x-rays, fluoride treatment and oral health care products to take home. Some children received sealants as well as restorative dental work. Follow-up work was noted and is being coordinated with Kim Howard RDH, I-Smile Oral Health coordinator. In all, the dentists and their staff provided more than $6,000 in free dental treatment.
Other community partners that made this day a success were Kris Simbro, Newton Community School District transportation director, who coordinated the transportation of the 25 participants between six schools and the dental providers; Newton school nurses and staff, who helped identify children in need; Missy Price, manager of Subway on First Avenue East; and Wal-Mart.
