Dental College gives children a reason to smile

Nearly 150 children from the CSRA are smiling big after visits to the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University.

The college participated in the Give Kids a Smile program for the 16th year, providing free dental services to children in the CSRA with help from dental supply sponsors. This year, children from three Richmond County elementary schools and a South Carolina Mennonite community were given preventative services including teeth cleanings, fillings and sealants. Patients were evaluated prior to the Dental College visit to determine what treatments would be needed.

Dental College Dean Carol Lefebvre said the program is an "all-hands on deck" initiative involving the schools, sponsors and inviting local dentists to participate.

"It's a worthy cause because a lot of these kids don't have a chance to get to the dentist (due to) transportation, finances and access," Bruce Riggs, assistant professor in pediatric dentistry at the Dental College, said.

Nationwide, the Give Kids a Smile program treated approximately 5,500 children Friday and has provided dental services for nearly six million children since its inception in 2002 in St. Louis. Riggs said the program in Augusta continues to grow as word gets out about the service. Once children have been treated, they often return for follow up services paid for through state assistance like Medicaid or the college works with parents for payment.

Elementary students are not the only ones gaining something from the program. Dental College seniors gained experience and contributed four hours to their required 25 hours of community service by treating children.

"They get a real world experience treating children that are in very much need of such care," Lefebvre said.

Students kept patients calm using a technique called "tell, show, do," Riggs said. First, they explain what they will do then show them on their hand before beginning the procedure. Riggs said taking the time to explain helps reduce anxiety.

"Once you get their acceptance and their trust, usually you can go forward and they're more receptive," he said.