UIC College of Dentistry Welcomes more than 100 Children for Give Kids a Smile Day
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On February 5, 2025, the UIC College of Dentistry hosted its annual Give Kids a Smile Day as part of a national initiative aimed at ensuring access to quality oral health care for all children. This year’s event welcomed more than 100 children from St. Malachy School, Children of Peace School and Head Start families from El Valor for a day of free oral health screenings, oral health care education and face painting. Give Kids a Smile Day was launched in 2003 by the American Dental Association Foundation and the UIC College of Dentistry has been participating from the start.
Children were entertained by “Happy Molar,” a student volunteer dressed up as a tooth, along with the “Tooth Fairy,” who demonstrated good brushing habits. Each child received an oral hygiene kit to take home, reinforcing the importance of daily care and routine dental visits.
Through events like Give Kids a Smile Day, the UIC College of Dentistry demonstrates its commitment to public health advocacy and public health initiatives. “The children have a wonderful experience, which leaves a positive impact year after year,” said Susan Rowan, dean of the College of Dentistry. “Teaching children about their oral health in a fun and interactive way is the greatest act of optimism for the future.”