Santa Clara Dentists To Provide Free Cleanings, Check-ups to Children on Valentine’s Day
Fifty Santa Clara County dentists will mark Valentine's Day by offering free basic exams and cleanings tomorrow to about 500 low-income children as part of "Dentists with a Heart" day, the San Jose Mercury News reports. The event, sponsored by the Santa Clara County Dental Society and Health Trust, a public benefit corporation that focuses on underserved Santa Clara residents, will help children who likely would not have access to dental services otherwise, according to David Lees, director of Health Trust's children's dental initiative. He said that more than 115,000 children ages five to 17 in the county do not have access to dental care. The 500 children who will receive exams and cleanings were referred by parents, teachers and school nurses (Skipitares, San Jose Mercury News, 2/13). No proof of income or insurance status is required to receive care (Health Trust release, 2/6). If a dentist determines a child needs further treatment, the patient will be referred to Health Trust to ensure follow-up care is provided. Health Trust has also arranged free transportation to dental offices for families that need it (San Jose Mercury News, 2/13).
This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.