The National Children's Dental Health Month will kick off on Feb 4, 2011, as dentists across New Hampshire offer children from low-income families free dental services including dental examinations, cleanings, fluoride treatments and sealants. This is part of the annual Give Kids A Smile campaign locally supported by the New Hampshire Dental Society and the Northeast Delta Dental Foundation.
“It's heartbreaking to see a child's smile destroyed by severe tooth decay,” says Dr. Melissa Kennell, a N.H dentist. “Imagine not being able to eat, sleep and pay attention in school because you have a mouth full of toothaches.”
According to the American Dental Society, oral health is closely linked to overall health, and dental disease is the most prevalent childhood disease. And, it is almost completely preventable through regular dental visits, brushing, flossing and access to fluoride.
In Concord, dentists will provide free dental services at Generations Dental located at 9 Triangle Park Drive, Suite 3. To learn more about enrolling a child in a Give Kids A Smile clinic, parents should talk to their school nurse or office before Wednesday, Jan. 26. for more information.
To find a local dentist near you, please visit nhds.org or call 225-5961.