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Illinois children received free dental exams on Saturday, September 10, at Malcolm X College in Chicago.
The event was part of Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation’s Dentist By 1 program, which educates parents and caregivers about good oral health habits and the benefits of starting dental visits early. Since 2012, Dentist By 1 events have raised awareness about the importance of early dental visits and provided free dental exams. To date, 439 Illinois children have been treated through the Dentist By 1 program.
About 76% of children attending this year’s event had never been to a dentist before, and 14% had cavities.
Scheduling a dental visit by age 1 allows a child and parent to establish a relationship with their dentist. It also sets the foundation for regular visits and good oral health habits.
At the event, volunteer dental teams from Illinois dental practices provided free preventive and diagnostic services, including dental cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments, sealants and X-rays. Each child who attended the event also received an oral health kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and a dental care instructional sheet.
For more information about Dentist By 1, visit Dental Care for Children.
