ISU students help kids smile for free - East Idaho News
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ISU students help kids smile for free

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POCATELLO — Volunteers at the annual “Give Kids a Smile” helped nearly 100 children smile a little brighter in east Idaho on Saturday.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and for over 10 years Idaho State University has celebrated it by donating their time to “Give Kids a Smile.”

“It’s our way to give back to the community,” Assistant Dental Hygiene Professor Karen Portillo said, “Some people just don’t have the opportunity to get dental care.”

The program provides free dental care to children up to fifth grade, whose parents have no dental insurance or limited dental coverage. Juniors and seniors in ISU’s Dental Hygiene program provide children with preventative care at ISU’s Dental Hygiene building.

This year over 50 students volunteered, as well as other staff, to provide cleanings, X-rays, exams, fluoride varnish and sealants to children.

“It’s really rewarding and fun,” ISU senior Nikki Westfall told EastIdahoNews.com. “I love giving the care for free and being able to give my time.”

Westfall helped with the event last year and this year was part of the committee that planned the event starting in August.

This year’s event featured a Jungle Book theme that included decorations, a face painting station, button making, and a photo op for children with Jungle Book characters.

Children who need additional dental care can also receive free treatment from dentists in the area. Last year through the program, children received nearly $60,000 in additional care. This year nearly 30 dentist volunteered their time for the event. Dentists participated from as far away as American Falls.

The event lasted two days Friday evening and all day Saturday to provide multiple times for parents to bring in children.

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