Give Kids a Smile event is kicking off this Saturday

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Going to the dentist is critical for your health. But not all children have that option, which can cause big problems.

"Kids that have a lot of cavities, kids that are in pain, kids that have swelling and infection, they're not focusing in school, they're not as healthy as they can be," said Give Kids a Smile Co-Chair Dr. Dorothy Theogene.

That's why the Wisconsin Dental Association is once again hosting the Give Kids a Smile Screening Day at the Marquette University Dental School.

"The first 600 children that come will receive an oral health screening, a check for cavities, they'll receive a tooth cleaning, and a fluoride dental treatment," said Dr. Theogene.

An urgent care is available for a limited number of children with swelling or infection.

Select children with non-emergency treatment needs will be matched with an area dentist.

"On February 7th, they'll be given an appointment to go to a local community dentist who volunteered their offices and their time to give at least a free treatment to this child for that day," said Dr. Theogene.

Those who attend will receive oral health instructions.

Representatives will also be on hand to help low-income families get set up with insurance and find a primary dentist.

"We're just doing what we can to help facilitate access to care for these patients," said Dr. Theogene.

Making a big difference one smile at a time.

Give Kids a Smile will be held at the Marquette School of Dentistry this Saturday from 9 am - noon.

Patients will be seen on a first come first served basis.