Free clinic gives children something to smile about
A free clinic has given children a reason to smile in Jackson County.
The clinic, which opened yesterday, welcomed children who would normally struggle to see a dentist because their parents can’t afford dental treatment and they don’t have insurance plans. The clinic was run by Barnes Family Dentistry and was supported by the Boys and Girls club. The clinic will be open for three days at the Escatawpa Elementary School in Moss Point.
Dentist Larry Wilson said the programme run by Barnes Family Dentistry was extremely beneficial for local children, especially those who come from low income families. Dr Wilson said that some children are very nervous about seeing the dentist but they are quickly put at ease by the volunteers.
The clinic is offering routine examinations and preventative treatments; these treatments help to strengthen the teeth and make them more resistant to decay in the future. Preventative treatments are aimed to promote good oral health and prevent costly, complex treatments in the future.
Many children who come from low income families do not visit the dentist on a regular basis because their parents can’t afford dental treatment; some practices charge up to 100 dollars for an examination and many families simply don’t have that kind of money, especially during these troubled economic times. Clinics like this one in Moss Point provide an opportunity for underprivileged kids and help to educate children and their families about the importance of good oral health.
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