In honor of Children’s Dental Health month, North Bend dentist Kelly Garwood hosted its first Give Kids A Smile Day.

The one day program took place on Friday, Feb. 5 at Garwood’s dental office. Volunteers from the Kerry Bailey and James Browning dental offices also lent a hand.

Sponsored by the American Dental Association, Give Kids A Smile gives children from low-income families who have no access to insurance or dental care the chance to learn how to take care of their teeth. Following an introduction to oral hygiene instruction, children then have the opportunity to receive preventative cleaning, x-rays, exams and fluoride.

There are many children in need of dental care in the Valley, Garwood said.

“One of the most rewarding things about being a dentist is helping people,” she said.

Garwood welcomed 20 children, from elementary students to high schoolers, to her office for check-ups on the day.

“We’re teaching them how to care for their teeth and gums, as well as screen for decay and other dental disease,” she said.

Jake Hall, 5, came in with his mom and older brother for his first dentist cleaning.

Seeing the tools and gadgets used to clean his teeth, took the edge off of Jake’s first visit and made it a fun learning experience.