The Dental Clinic at Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) will once again offer free dental care to children at its annual “Give Kids a Smile” event, set for Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The event will be held at the CVTC Dental Clinic at the Health Education Center, 615 W. Clairemont Ave., on the south side of the street. The event offers families that struggle to afford dental care an opportunity for free dental care for their children.
In addition, medical residents from the adjacent Prevea Health clinic, working with CVTC Nursing students, will provide free health assessments.
Children ages 2 to 13 will be able to obtain, upon approval, teeth cleaning, X-rays, exams, fluoride treatments, sealants, fillings and extractions. The services are free of charge. Care will be provided by volunteer local dentists and hygienists, as well as CVTC dental hygienist and dental assistant students and faculty volunteering their time.
Appointments can be scheduled by calling 715-833-6271. Appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis. Staffing allows for providing care to about 130 children during the day, though staff may not be able to complete all of the work a child may need during the event.
The kids treated leave with more than healthier teeth, according to a CVTC press release. They also take home information and advice.
“The day is also about education – both dental health and overall health,” said Dental Clinic Manager Brianna Eckwright.
The “Give Kids a Smile” event is sponsored by the American Dental Association and the Wisconsin Dental Association, which provides supplies for the event, and sponsored locally by the Chippewa Valley Dental Society. The event is a partnership between area dentists and the CVTC Dental Clinic.