Giving Kids A Smile in SB

On Saturday, February 22nd, Dental Care of San Bernardino, located at 322 North H Street, held their 2014 Give Kids A Smile Clinic in conjunction with the Tri-County Dental Society in Riverside. Throughout the day, the staff at Dental Practice of San Bernardino greeted young patients and provided free treatments that included x-rays, exams, cleanings, fillings, sealants, and crowns as needed. The youngsters were also treated to dental supplies and dental health educational information. For 6-year-old Meletonga Niuila of San Bernardino, it was her first ever dentist visit and she admitted to being a little scared. “I am scared, but I think kids should come to the dentist so they can have healthy teeth,” she said. Her mother Taufa Niuila brought her to the clinic thanks to her aunt, who had found out about the special kids clinic. “My daughter is in school and needs dental work done. This is a good thing, to help her feel better about her teeth,” said Niuila. Carla Loza, 16, of San Bernardino, said she had been coming to the Give Kids A Smile Clinic since she was a little kid. “I have come here for a long time,” said Loza, “everyone is very kind and they always make me feel better. Dr. Zuniga is my favorite doctor, but sometimes I see someone else.” Recently, Carla had lost her medical insurance and was waiting to see when she could get insurance again, but was told that due to the Obamacare changes in coverages, there was no idea when she might be able to see a dentist again. Her mother was referred to the Give Kids A Smile Clinic, and they were thrilled to have the opportunity that day to return to the office and have Carla’s dental work done at no cost. “I think my wisdom teeth are coming in, and I am hurting a lot,” she said, “I’m glad I can come today.” Doctor Isaac Penalba, DDS, shared that their office participates in Give Kids A Smile Day once a year each February, and that they also have adult clinics. “Between all of the dental offices that are members of the Tri-County Dental Society,” he said, “there are about six to eight clinics in the Inland Empire throughout the year. The offices that participate give their clinic to this cause for the day.” “Children’s dental health is essential for their overall health and development,” Penalba explained, “the health of their baby teeth sets up healthy development for their adult teeth. Healthy teeth are important to be able to eat food correctly, and to have a positive social growth as well. We want to make sure the kid’s are able to eat right, grow, have no infection, no pain, and good dental health sets them on the right track.” Give Kids A Smile Clinic deals with children who have sprouted their very first tooth, to children up to 18 years of age. During the clinic the services are provided without cost to the children and their families. The staff at Dental Practice of San Bernardino includes two children’s specialists, general practice dentists and an orthodontist. Additional information about future clinics can be found at the Tri-County Dental Society’s by calling 951-787-9700.