DURHAM, NC -- Have you ever had a toothache so painful that is was hard to sleep? Now imagine you have a mouthful of toothaches and you’re only a child.
Many underserved children in Durham County can’t smile, pay attention in school, or even sleep because of tooth decay.
The Durham County Department of Public Health, with the assistance from dental professionals in the community, will host its ninth annual Give Kids A Smile Day on Friday, February 1, 2013.
Appointment scheduling for free dental care begins on Monday, January 14, 2013, on a first come, first served basis. Appointments can be made by calling 919-560-7680, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
“The Durham County Department of Public Health hosts the Give Kids a Smile event because there are a number of children in Durham from low-income families who do not receive proper dental care,” said James R. Harris Jr., Ph.D., dental division director. “This event helps us to bridge that gap, and it shows that the department is a vested member in promoting the health and well being of our community.”
To be eligible for Give Kids A Smile, a child or individual must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 5 years-old, but have not reached their 21st birthday.
- Be a new dental patient to Public Health’s Dental Clinic
- Have NO Dental Insurance
For more information about Give Kids A Smile or children’s dental services offered by the Durham County Department of Public Health, contact Yolandas Alston at 919-560-7691.
# # #