22 children receive free dental care during Give Kids a Smile

The Erie County Health Department and Erie County Community Health Center participated in the annual Give Kids a Smile event Feb. 25 providing essential dental services free of charge to 22 children, according to a news release.

In dollars and cents, this event provided $6,854 of dental services during the event, the release said.

This included 22 comprehensive exams, 21 dental cleanings, 15 fluoride treatments, 31 dental sealants, two panoramic X-rays, eight two-bitewing X-rays and two four-bitewing X-rays, according to the release.

Staff also provided one blood lead test and made a referral for a tuberculosis skin test.

“Our team worked tirelessly to ensure each child received personalized care and left with brighter smiles and healthier teeth,” the release said.

The annual event aims to address dental health disparities among underserved youth in communities across the United States, according to the release.

As in years past, the event was hosted at the Erie County Health Department and Erie County Community Health Center’s Main Campus at 420 Superior St. in Sandusky.

The state-of-the-art dental facility has eight dental chairs, with three more under construction slated for completion this spring.

The Erie County Health Department and Erie County Community Health Center also offers dental services at the EHOVE School Based Health Center and Kelleys Island Health Center.

The Erie County Health Department and Erie County Community Health Center’s dental program provides comprehensive preventative and restorative dental services including fillings, crowns and extractions.

“No one should have to go without dental care. Events like Give Kids a Smile reinforce our commitment to ensuring access to quality dental care for every child in our community,” said Peter T. Schade, Erie County health commissioner, in the release. “If families were unable to attend this event, we encourage them to call us to ask about our two Dental Safety Net grant-funded programs.”

The Erie County Health Department and Erie County Community Health Center’s Dental Safety Net programs offer free or reduced cost dental services to individuals and families who meet income guidelines, according to the release.

These services are available for adults and seniors as well as children, the release said.

For information about dental services at Erie County Health Department and Erie County Community Health Center, visit ErieCoHealthOhio.com or call 419-626-5623, Ext. 5174 to schedule an appointment.