Petaluma Health Center Holding Free Dental Clinic for Kids

Good dental hygiene is a critical for health, but what do you do when you don't have insurance?

Every year, the Petaluma Health Center offers free dental exams to low-income children, to coincide with the National Children’s Dental Health Month.

On Friday, February 1, six dentists and 10 assistants will conduct dental exams and cleanings, while also teaching kids about the importance of flossing and how to prevent cavities. Appointments are required and are available between 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The event is being sponsored in conjunction with the Sonoma County Oral Health Access Coalition, Community Action Partnership Sonoma County and the Redwood Empire Dental Society. More than 100 dental professionals are participating countywide and expect to provide services to more than 500 children.

“This is a busy day every year with lots of good energy and fun activities for the children. It feels more like a celebration of our children,” said PHC Dental Clinic Director Dr. Ramona English.

Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease. By the time California children reach kindergarten, more than 50 percent already have dental decay, 19 percent have severe decay and 28 percent have untreated decay, according to the Dental Health Foundation.

The PHC services are intended for children from low income and/or uninsured families, and who don’t have a regular dentist or dental clinic.

To register a child for Petaluma Health Center’s free dental services on February 1, call (707) 559-7550.

Follow Petaluma Patch on  Twitter | Like us on Facebook | Sign up for our daily newsletter |Start a conversation with a blog