Give Kids a Smile (GKAS) is an impactful, heartwarming initiative that provides essential dental care and education to children in underserved communities. 

This annual event brings together dental professionals, volunteers, and community members with a shared mission of promoting children’s oral health. Organized by various dental associations and clinics, Give Kids A Smile offers free dental services, including cleanings, screenings, fluoride treatments, and even basic restorative procedures, to children who might not otherwise have access to adequate dental care. The initiative not only addresses immediate dental needs but also emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper oral hygiene habits for long-term health.

The success of Give Kids A Smile lies in its ability to bring together dental professionals, volunteers, and local communities in a meaningful way. The initiative not only provides immediate dental relief to children who lack access to care but also raises awareness about the disparities in oral health. By highlighting the importance of equal access to healthcare services, Give Kids A Smile advocates for positive change in healthcare policy and resource allocation. As the initiative continues to grow, it serves as a shining example of how collective efforts can make a lasting impact on children’s lives, fostering compassion, empowerment, and social responsibility in society. Read about the GKAS event in 2022.

The first GKAS event was held in 2002 and served nearly 400 children with 15 patient chairs. That effort and its potential to raise oral health awareness revealed the need for education and care, and it became a nationwide program the following year.

Since the Give Kids a Smile (GKAS) program launched more than 20 years ago, more than 6,000 dentists and more than 30,000 dental team members have volunteered across the nation at local GKAS events like ours to provide free screenings, treatment, and oral health education to more than 300,000 children!

Sign up to receive information on our Arizona Give Kids a Smile initiative here!