Joseph Browne, a third year SBU dental student, prepares to give a fluoride treatment to a young patient at “Give Kids a Smile” Day. Marika Chikvashvili, a second year dental student, assists Browne.

STONY BROOK, N.Y., March 5, 2009 – Dental students, residents, hygienists, and faculty of the Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine provided free dental screening and care to approximately 225 children during this year’s “Give Kids a Smile” Day. The day is   sponsored each February by the American Dental Association (ADA) and is part of a national campaign to provide dental care and promote the importance of oral health to children despite their economic status.

The School of Dental Medicine has participated in the event for seven straight years, screening and caring for thousands of area children in need of dental care at Stony Brook’s Dental Care Center. In addition to a general dental screening, the children received fluoride treatment, sealants, and other dental care as needed. Dental professionals also provided oral health care education to the children and their families.

Also participating in “Give Kids a Smile Day” at Stony Brook were dental assistant students and staff from the School of Dental Medicine, along with dental hygiene students from SUNY Farmingdale and area dentists.

Established in 1968, the Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine serves patients through its clinical and educational initiatives. The primary educational mission of the School is to graduate caring and skilled dentists and dental specialists who provide compassionate, patient-centered care in a professional manner and in all cultural contexts. The School supports research efforts to advance oral and systemic health through collaborations with medical colleagues, industry, private foundations and governmental agencies.

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