Daytona Beach, FL - Fifteen Volusia County youth may be smiling more widely today. As part of the annual Give Kids a Smile event held Friday, February 5, they received free comprehensive dental care from the Florida Department of Health (DOH) – Volusia County.

“Cavities and tooth loss are preventable,” said Ron Rondeau, DOH-Volusia County interim administrator. “Good oral health is a key part of overall wellness. When any child comes into the office, we work to restore their oral health and prevent any future dental problems.”

The child receives needed services during the visit – at no charge, Rondeau said. On Friday, dental staff in the Daytona Beach and DeLand offices collectively performed 15 exams and cleanings, six fillings, 58 sealants and 15 fluoride treatments. All patients received nutritional counseling and oral hygiene instructions. The value of services provided was more than $3,000, Rondeau said. Patients ranged in age from 4-15.

“Our goal is to complete the child’s entire treatment in this visit without them having to return to the office,” said Denise Orlando, DOH-Volusia dentist.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cavities are one of the nation’s most common chronic childhood conditions. Left untreated cavities can cause pain and infections that may lead to problems with daily activities, including eating, speaking, playing and learning.

The annual Give Kids a Smile event is held in observance of February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month. Launched by the American Dental Association (ADA) in 2003, more than 5 million underserved children have received free oral health services, according to the ADA’s website.

For more information about National Children’s Dental Health Month, visit the American Dental Association website. Additional information can also be found at DOH-Volusia’s website at Volusia.flhealth.gov.

Editor’s note: The photo is of dental patient Genesis Briones Araujo, 15, of Daytona Beach, and DOH-Volusia dental hygienist Priscilla Montijo. Genesis was one of 15 Volusia County youth who received free dental services at the Department’s Daytona Beach dental office February 5 as part of the annual Give Kids a Smile event.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov

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