Idaho Dentists Providing Free Services for Kids

Kids and cavities go hand in hand. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly one in four children under the age of five already has cavities in their teeth. It's almost inevitable which is why The Give Kids A Smile campaign exists! It aims to provide dental healthcare for children who do not have dental insurance and it's time to set those appointments here in Idaho.

Dentists all across the Gem State are providing free screenings, cleanings and treatments to children who don’t have dental care, even including Medicaid. If you're child could use a good cleaning, sign them up for a appointment! Better yet, the Idaho State Dental Association says a child doesn't even have to be experiencing dental issues to be seen. All kids should have access to regular cleanings and check-ups.

The American Dental Association launched the Give Kids A Smile program nationally in 2003 as a way for dentists all over the country to make a difference in their communities by providing dental services to under-served children. Since then, more than five million children have received free oral health services. The program initially began as a one-day event in February, but has since grown to local and national events. Last year dentists in the Idaho alone provided free treatments to almost 1,000 kids!

The only eligibility for the program is that kids must be without dental insurance. If you're interested, you can fill out your information on the Idaho State Dental Association’s website. Your child will then be paired with a participating dentist in the area. The deadline for parents to make an appointment is February 15, 2021.