Dental Squadron offers clinic for Little Teeth - Big Smiles

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Desiree Economides
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  The 374th Dental Squadron will host a walk-in dental clinic for children, up to 10 years old, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., on Feb. 2, 2013, at the Yokota Air Base Dental Clinic.

During the Little Teeth-Big Smiles Clinic, patients will be offered well baby exams, dental examinations and cleanings and oral hygiene education.

"The clinic is providing an additional opportunity for our youngest patients to access dental care," said Staff Sgt. Amanda Colavolpe, 374 DS dental hygienist.

Dental caries, or cavities, are the most common infectious disease amongst children. Additionally, 60 percent of children in the United States, younger than 5 years old, have experienced a cavity.

Prevention is the key to healthy teeth, added Colavolpe, this includes early detection, fluoride treatments and education on proper brushing and flossing techniques. All of the above will be services provided during the clinic.

There are approximately 100 patient slots available at Little Teeth-Big Smile for children at Yokota.

For more information about the clinic, contact the 374 DS at 225-8067 or 225-3671.