According to a report from the Ohio Department of Health, kids from low-income families are more than twice as likely to have untreated cavities compared to their peers. Cavities left untreated can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even missed school days. To address this issue, a special event will take place at Shawnee State University on Friday, February 7, 2025, offering free dental care to students in the Scioto County School District.
The event, part of the nationwide Give Kids A Smile program, will bring together volunteer dentists from the Southern Ohio Dental Society and dental hygiene students from Shawnee State University. Around 50-75 children are expected to receive preventive dental care, including cleanings and treatments, along with lessons on how to maintain healthy teeth.
Important Notice
Parent/Guardian must be present to fill out the paperwork and give a health history. No unaccompanied children will be accepted.
Why This Matters
Events like this aim to bridge the gap in dental care access, ensuring all children have a chance to maintain healthy smiles.
What’s Happening?
The event will kick off with a brief ceremony at 8:30 a.m. in Shawnee State University’s Health Sciences Building, Room 101. From 9 a.m. to noon, children will receive free dental care and learn about proper oral hygiene habits.
Organizers emphasize that teaching kids good dental habits early can set them up for a lifetime of better health. “This program is about more than cleanings—it’s about education and giving kids the tools they need to avoid bigger problems down the road,” a spokesperson for the Southern Ohio Dental Society said.
Community Effort
Give Kids A Smile, launched by the American Dental Association, is a volunteer-driven program that provides free dental care and education to children across the nation. Local events like this rely on partnerships with schools, universities, and organizations to reach families who might not otherwise have access to dental care.
If you’re in the area, stop by Shawnee State University on February 7 to see the community coming together to improve the health and futures of Southern Ohio’s kids.