Let's put a smile on that face

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kentavist P. Brackin
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --   The 1st Special Operations Dental Squadron held its first, "Little Teeth, Big Smiles" Kids' Clinic for the children of Air Commandos at the medical facility on Hurlburt Field, Fla., Feb. 23.
The event, part of February's National Children's Dental Health month, was held to help the military dental community reach out to children ages 2 - 10, to educate them on the importance of oral hygiene.
"I think that it's nice to provide a service like this to dependents, even if we can't see them on a day-to-day basis," said Capt. AnnMarie Moshos, officer-in-charge of the event and a general dentist for 1st SODS. "A lot of working with kids is getting them familiar with the dental experience. Many kids dread going to the dentist because of a bad first experience so hopefully this event can erase some of those fears."
Dental services provided during the event included exams, x-rays and cleanings - at the end of which children got an assortment of dental goodies including a toothbrush and toothpaste.
"It was a great experience for my daughter because she really seemed to enjoy the people dressed up like tooth fairies and [the dentist] were very informative throughout her exams," said Staff Sgt. Parker V. Stephens, one of the parents that brought their kids to the event and a structural craftsman for 823rd RED HORSE Squadron.
Children in the waiting area of the clinic were entertained by tooth fairies and dental activities to help them feel more familiar with the staff before seeing the dentist.
"We appreciate all the help they provided us, it's definitely something I would like to see them do again," said Parker.