OU College of Dentistry to Offer Free Dental Care at Annual Kids’ Day Event

The University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry in partnership with Delta Dental of Oklahoma Foundation, will hold its annual Kids’ Day event on Saturday, Feb. 25, at the college at 1201 N. Stonewall Avenue, Oklahoma City. Children ages 4 to 12, who have been pre-registered, will receive a variety of dental services that may include cleanings, fillings and crowns, at no cost.

Kids’ Day, a College of Dentistry tradition that began 24 years ago, is an effort to serve the community by reaching children who are unlikely to have access to dental services. Initially targeting the Oklahoma City metro area, the event now has a statewide reach and will serve over 100 children.

Under the supervision of trained dentists and faculty members, students pursuing degrees in dental professions provide a wide range of dental treatments and services. The value of services is expected to exceed $25,000.

First proposed in 1997 by dental student Darrel Daugherty, D.D.S., M.S., Kids’ Day is a much-anticipated annual event, planned and executed by students, with necessary logistical support from the department. Historically, more than 200 students, staff and faculty members volunteer to make the one-day event a success.

“Oral health is an essential component of one’s overall systemic health, and healthy habits begin early in one’s life,” said Paul M. Mullasseril, D.D.S., M.S., dean of the college. “The OU College of Dentistry is proud to offer this free clinic. Not only does this event address the immediate dental needs for children in our community, it also provides our dental and dental hygiene students with a sense of community service and the hands-on clinical experience they need to become well-rounded dental professionals.”

“Fostering good oral hygiene habits, including visits to the dentist, is key to helping kids in our state prioritize oral health throughout their lives,” said Delta Dental of Oklahoma president and CEO John Gladden. “We are proud to partner with the OU College of Dentistry on Kids’ Day and many other endeavors aimed at advancing our parallel missions: to improve the oral health of all Oklahomans.”

Pre-registration is required. Call 405-607-4755.

Times will be assigned during the required pre-registration process. When available times are filled, pre-registration will be closed. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Proof of guardianship is necessary if the patient’s biological parent is not present to consent to treatment.

Participants must arrive at their assigned times, but should be prepared for lengthy wait times and bring any necessary items such as medications, diapers, snacks or beverages. Free parking is available in the Stonewall Garage, northeast of the college.