The first Friday of February is recognized as Give Kids a Smile Day. Believe it or not, there are children who refuse to smile because they are embarrassed by the condition of their teeth. Unfortunately, not all parents understand the importance of getting regular check-ups or they are just unable to afford cleanings for their kids’ pearly whites.

Give Kids a Smile Day is a date to raise awareness and to help children get the dental care that they desperately need. For one day, Feb. 1, dentists across the country gather in hundreds of locations to offer free dental services to underprivileged kids. The goal is to provide dental resources in communities so that the children have the opportunity to receive ongoing care.

Give Kids a Smile Day has restored smiles to more than five million children since 2002. The dentists provide basic care including fillings, extractions and cleanings. At the end of the day, more than 10,000 dentists feel the satisfaction of serving underprivileged kids, and at the same time, happy children are leaving with free toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss and smiles on their faces!