OU College of Dentistry Provides Free Dental Care During Kids’ Day

The University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry provided free cleanings, fillings and crowns to over 100 children during the annual Kids’ Day. The event was sponsored in part by the Delta Dental of Oklahoma Foundation.

The OU College of Dentistry began Kids’ Day 25 years ago to provide dental services to Oklahoma children ages 4 to 12 who otherwise may not have access to care. OU College of Dentistry students provide the services under the supervision of faculty members and trained dentists.

College alumnus Darrel Daugherty, D.D.S., M.S., first proposed the idea of Kids’ Day. It initially targeted the Oklahoma City metro area and now has a statewide reach. Students have planned and executed the event from the beginning. More than 200 students, staff and faculty members volunteer their time and skills to welcome families and provide care.

“Oral health is an essential component of one’s overall systemic health, and healthy habits begin early in life,” said Paul M. Mullasseril, D.D.S, M.S, dean of the college. “The OU College of Dentistry is proud to offer this free clinic. Not only does this event address immediate dental needs for children in our state, it also provides our dental and dental hygiene students with a sense of community service and the hands-on clinical experience they need to become well-rounded dental professionals.”

“Leading and organizing Kids’ Day 2024 has been an extremely rewarding experience,” said Ranim Shawareb, a fourth-year dental student and class president. “This event means more than just the procedures themselves but an opportunity to increase awareness of the importance of oral health in our younger population. Witnessing faculty, staff and students unite for such a wonderful cause is not only inspiring but a reminder of the profound impact we can collectively make in our community.”

OU College of Dentistry Kids’ Day is held each February, which is Children’s Oral Health Month.

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About the University of Oklahoma
Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university in Oklahoma. As the state’s flagship university, OU serves the educational, cultural, economic and health care needs of the state, region and nation. OU was named the state’s highest-ranking university in U.S. News & World Report’s most recent Best Colleges list. For more information about the university, visit www.ou.edu.