Dr. Robert Kamminga was the dentist on the Ottawa County Department of Public Health’s Miles of Smiles mobile dental unit this past Friday, Feb. 2 for Give Kids a Smile Day. He provided comprehensive dental care for Medicaid insured and financially qualifying uninsured children at Great Lakes Elementary. Every child received a gift bag complete with a toothbrush, toothpaste, prize and oral health education.

“Our Miles of Smiles program is the best example of a community collaborative effort that I could ever envision,” said Debra Bassett, RDH, BHS Ottawa County Department of Public Health Oral Health Supervisor.

Pain from untreated dental disease makes it difficult for children to eat, sleep and concentrate in school. Poor oral health also affects their self-esteem.

Ottawa County Department of Public Health Miles of Smiles mobile dental unit provides dental services for Medicaid insured and financially qualifying uninsured children in Ottawa County. Partners include dental society involvement, dentist and hygienist volunteers, school administration dedication, community support, funder’s generosity, Ottawa County Administration support and Ottawa County Department of Public Health’s commitment to help improve the health of children.

Please call 1-800-467-5905 to schedule an appointment for your child if they are in need of a dentist, have Medicaid or are uninsured and qualify for the free/reduced lunch program.