Give Kids a Smile

Give Kids a Smile (GKAS) is a flagship program of the ADA Foundation, launched nationally in 2003 with the vision to ensure access to quality oral healthcare for all children, especially those in underserved communities. This impactful initiative brings together thousands of volunteer dentists, dental hygienists, assistants, and other dental team members, along with community volunteers, to provide essential dental services. The program typically kicks off annually on the first Friday in February, designated as "Give Kids A Smile Day," coinciding with National Children's Dental Health Month. However, GKAS events are held throughout the year at various locations across the U.S., including established clinics, mobile dental units, and even private practices that dedicate time to the cause. The local presence in Quincy, IL, specifically points to the "T.L. Gilmer GKAS Clinic" which serves children from Adams, Brown, and Schuyler counties in Illinois. Services provided through Give Kids a Smile events are comprehensive and free of charge. They commonly include oral examinations, X-rays, teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, and oral hygiene education. For children with more pressing needs, the program also facilitates restorative procedures such as fillings, sealants, extractions, and in some cases, even root canals. The primary goal is not just to address immediate dental issues but also to educate children and their families on proper oral hygiene habits and to help establish a "dental home" for continuous, long-term care, thereby breaking down barriers to access. Since its inception, Give Kids a Smile has made a significant impact, having provided free oral health education and services to millions of underserved children across the United States. The program relies heavily on the dedication of volunteers and the support of national sponsors like Henry Schein, Inc., and Colgate-Palmolive Company, who donate essential oral health care products.