Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry celebrated National Children’s Dental Health Month by expanding its annual Give Kids A Smile event, increasing access to free dental care for children in the Richmond area.
For the first time, patients were treated at both the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU Children’s Pavilion and the Pediatric Dentistry at Northside Clinic. The downtown location focused on restorative care, while the Northside Clinic provided preventive services, primarily administered by dental hygiene students.
Held on February 20, the event brought together dental and dental hygiene students, residents, and pediatric dentistry faculty volunteering their time to provide comprehensive care at no cost to families. Services included exams, cleanings, sealants, extractions, and other essential procedures.
With two locations, the School of Dentistry treated 119 patients, up from 80 the previous year, delivering approximately $74,000 in donated care.
Paula Coates, D.D.S., M.S., a faculty member in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry since 2021, has participated in multiple Give Kids A Smile events. While she provides care, she mainly supervises students and residents.
“Many children have no experience as dental patients, and it is our job to fill those blank slates with positive experiences,” Coates said. “It’s powerful to teach them that oral health and visiting the dentist can be fun and not scary. This early education helps them grow into adults who maintain good oral health.”
The program addresses barriers many low-income families face, including lack of Medicaid eligibility, shortages of providers, language barriers, transportation issues, and the high cost of dental care.
The event also offers students valuable hands-on experience. Dental student Wafa Khan, a four-year volunteer and organizer, said, “Seeing the smiles on children’s faces and the gratitude from their parents is incredibly rewarding. We also make learning about oral health fun, whether it’s brushing dinosaur dental plushies or handing out prizes.”
Khan emphasized the importance of preventive education, stating, “Pediatric dentistry focuses on prevention through education. Teaching children in an enjoyable way helps them feel comfortable and cared for, setting the stage for lifelong oral health.”
Coates reflected on the event’s impact, saying, “Every year, I leave with a full heart—proud of our students, grateful for our volunteers, and touched by the relief of parents learning the care is free. I hope this spirit of service continues throughout their careers.”
Give Kids A Smile exemplifies VCU School of Dentistry’s mission to provide clinical excellence while fostering leadership, community service, and early education in oral health.