Idaho health center gives kids something to smile about with free dental care

I realize that going to the dentist is zero fun.

Children are especially reluctant, and for good reason.

Drilling and scraping the teeth, poking the gums — uh, no thanks.

But good oral hygiene is uber-important in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. And getting kids on a routine early is vital. After all, preventative care is always less expensive than emergency care.

Of course, not everyone can afford the maintenance necessary to keep teeth healthy.

Enter Terry Reilly Health Services.

The “community health center dedicated to providing affordable, comprehensive health care” is again partaking in the annual “Give Kids a Smile” program, which offers free dental to eligible children.

The event will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 7 at Terry Reilly’s Canyon Dental location at 11136 Moss Lane, Nampa.

Children with no insurance and from low-income families are eligible for exams, cleanings, flouride treatments, fillings and extractions.

To reserve a spot for your child, call Mary McMullen and Irene Romero at 208-344-0086, ext. 3504 and 7747, as space is limited.

For more information about Terry Reilly Health Services, go to trhs.org or facebook.com/TerryReillyHealth.