Santa Ynez Tribal Health Clinic to Host Free Pediatric Dental Clinic

The Santa Ynez Tribal Health Clinic is bringing free dental care for children in the community on Wednesday, February 25, during its sixth annual Give Kids A Smile (GKAS) event.

 

The event provides children, ages 12 and under, with free dental work, including exams, cleanings, along with oral health education and dietary recommendations. Any treatment that is diagnosed during the exams will be completed at follow-up visits throughout 2026. The event will be staffed by SYTHC dentists, registered dental assistants and dental hygienists. During last year’s event, over $7,300 of dental services were provided to 28 children at no cost to their families.

 

 

Native communities can face significant barriers to access to oral health care. According to a 2015 study published by the Pew Research Center, half of all Native children live in areas with a dental care shortage. This results in pre-school-aged Native children having 4 times more cases of untreated tooth decay than white children.

 

Regular oral health care is critical to preventing tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease in children.

 

“Our dental clinic looks forward to this event every year as a chance to prioritize pediatric oral health and make a genuine, lasting impact on the well-being of our youngest patients,”  Dr. Mike Savidan, Dental Director for the Santa Ynez Tribal Health Clinic, said in a press release.

 

Pre-registration is required to participate, and openings are limited. If you are interested in your child participating in the Give Kids A Smile event, please call SYTHC at 805-688-7070 to register.