Prior to their appointments, patients waited in the children’s lounge and were treated to balloon animals, movies and finger painting. Some children also received X-rays and dental sealants. Those requiring further care were seen by a nurse who would contact parents to schedule a follow-up appointment.

“Kenderton is located directly within the Temple surrounding community, so we really felt an obligation to give something back,” said fourth-year student Avin Gupta, co-organizer of the event.

Oral health disparities among Latino and African American children continue to be a concern for dental healthcare professionals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that African American and Latino children are 1.5 and 2.5 times more likely than white children to have tooth decay, respectively.

“It’s so important for children to establish good oral hygiene practices early,” said Ivonne Ganem, assistant professor and acting chair of the Department of Dental Public Health Sciences at Kornberg. “Programs like Give Kids a Smile help us show these children how to do that.”

Ganem has participated in Give Kids a Smile Day for the past five years, which occurs in the first week of February to kick off Pediatric Dental Health Month. This is the third year Temple has held an event.