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The Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) welcomed 170 children to its Alton campus Monday, Oct. 12, for Give Kids a Smile Day, providing approximately $80,000 in free dental services, according to Jennifer Mansfield, assistant director of community dentistry. Services were comprehensive, including cleanings, fillings, extractions and imaging. The annual outreach brought together dental students, faculty and staff to promote oral health, expand access to care and provide impactful clinical experiences for future dental professionals.

For East Elementary fifth grader Gabrielle James, the event offered an opportunity to receive dental care while learning more about the profession. Gabrielle participated in activities throughout the morning, including dressing up like a dentist and posing for photographs with an off-duty Tooth Fairy.

Gabrielle acknowledged feeling nervous during portions of her appointment but said she enjoyed the day's activities. Her experience shows how the SIU SDM can create a welcoming environment for young patients while encouraging positive attitudes toward oral healthcare.

Necole James, Gabrielle’s mother, registered her children for the event after her own experience receiving care at SIU SDM. When an accident a couple of years ago left her with a cracked tooth, James sought emergency dental treatment at the School. Her experience established confidence in not only the student providers, but with the exceptional level of care she received.

"It's an awesome program, and I really appreciate that they allow the students to do this. It's amazing," said James.

James also noted that holding the event on a day when her children were out of school made it easier to prioritize their dental health without interrupting classroom instruction or her work schedule.

"I found it very convenient, being that I didn't have to bother their instructional time at school to bring them to an appointment," said James. "It was perfect.”

Give Kids a Smile Day provided opportunities to engage directly with children and families while supporting the School's broader mission of community service. The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville WE CARE Clinic mobile unit was also present at the event, offering free school physicals, no appointment needed.

First-year dental student Zoey Lane, who graduated from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville this past spring, volunteered to portray the Tooth Fairy. Lane served as president of a pre-dental organization at SIUE and participated in several Give Kids a Smile events in St. Louis, along with other initiatives focused on improving access to dental services.

Lane emphasized the importance of providing dental care to individuals and families who may otherwise face barriers to receiving treatment. She also loves working with kids.

"Dentistry is healthcare, and it should be open to all," said Lane.

Saulius E. Drukteinis, DMD, PhD, professor and dean of SIU SDM, expressed gratitude for the students, faculty and staff who contributed to this year's event.

"We are so thankful to our SIU School of Dental Medicine Students, Staff and Faculty for hosting another successful Give Kids a Smile Event in service to the children of our communities," said Drukteinis. "It is always special to see families visiting us and prioritizing well-being of their little ones and oral health at an early age."

The annual event reflects the School's continued investment in community oral health, providing essential care to local children while offering students opportunities to apply their training in service to others.

Photos: 1-Gabrielle James (seated) with SIU SDM clinician students, 2- Zoey Lane, 3- SIU SDM Dean Saulius Drukteinis with dental students