Give Kids a Smile

Thousands of low-income children across the state of Minnesota received much-needed free dental care in February when volunteer dentists and other dental professionals donated their time and resources to provide free care during our annual Give Kids a Smile event.

Along with the satisfaction of helping children protect and restore their dental health, volunteers are always gratified to see so many beautiful smiles! You can see some of the smiles, too, by visiting our Give Kids a Smile 2010 photo page.

The Minnesota Dental Association works with hundreds of schools, organizations and agencies to promote this program to families in need. To receive updates, beginning in October, please send us your contact information at gkas@mndental.org. For special news and announcements, please become a fan of the MDA on Facebook and Twitter.

Our generous sponsors
The MDA is proud to announce that HealthPartners and 3M ESPE Dental Products have again joined us as sponsors. These generous companies, who have supported Give Kids a Smile for eight years, provided funds needed to promote the program with advertising on WCCO-TV and on radio stations throughout the state. The ads encouraged families in need to make an appointment for Give Kids a Smile. This year’s WCCO-TV ads featured Amelia Santaniello and Frank Vascellaro. Please join the MDA in thanking these sponsors for their commitment to dentists’ charitable efforts and for helping us spread the word to families who lack access to dental services.

Support from the Minnesota Dental Foundation 
Each year, the Minnesota Dental Foundation provides grants to help offset costs of dental supplies needed by community-based clinics that host Give Kids a Smile events. Many of those clinics say they would not be able to participate without the Foundation’s support. Thank you!

Reduced-cost clinics are available year round
Give Kids a Smile provides two days of free dental care for low-income children in need. In some cases, more immediate dental attention may be necessary. To assist you in finding ongoing dental services, the Minnesota Dental Association has compiled a list of clinics that may take medical assistance, general assistance, or offer services on a sliding fee scale. Please note that information on this list is subject to change.

Before making an appointment, please call the appropriate clinic to discuss your needs and clarify fees, eligibility and other details. Click here to find Resources for Ongoing Care.

Learning good dental habits during childhood can result to a lifetime of healthy teeth and good oral hygiene.  From infancy, there are actions you can take to promote good oral hygiene. Check out our pediatric dental health series below.

Baby bottle tooth decay
Dental sealants protect kids from cavities
Give Kids a Smile Program
Sour candy